The Gauley River is one of the most popular advanced whitewater runs in the Eastern United States. It merges with the New River to form the Kanawha River, a tributary of the Ohio River. The 105-mile river is a dam-controlled watershed and has over 100 rapids, dropping more than 650 feet in 24 miles. The river passes through scenic gorges and valleys containing a wide variety of natural and cultural features. The Gauley River contains several class V rapids, making it one of the most adventurous whitewater rivers in the east.