Considering rafting Labor Day weekend. We have never done this before. Does anyone have any recommendations? New or Gauley River? Particular companies that may be better than others. Much thanks always.

Unless WV has had a downpour the rivers are down that time of the year. I would suggest Gauley River. Since the Gauley is dammed by Summersville Dam it probably would be a better ride.
As for companies, I don't know which one is better than the other.

Mountain Mama

Agree that generally September is not a good time to whitewater there.

Oh, thank goodness. I was sure the name Hilary Clinton was going to come up in this post.

The Gauley River is not usually raftable on Labor Day Weekend. They open the damn mid Sept thru end of October - and that's when rafting season is (on the Gauley).
It is a great river to raft! We've done it 3 times and always have a blast. We've gone with Wildwater Expeditions all 3 times and they have been great. The guides were knowlegable, safe and fun. Try and go - you'll love it.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I am so glad I asked. So here is the next question: when IS a good time to go rafting?

Our outfitter told us the Spring has the fastest water.

Here in the mountains, spring is THE time as snow is melting rapidly and filling the rivers.

I was about to post a question about rafting in WV on Labor Day weekend but found this post. So, we should go in late September - October or wait until next spring?

We will be driving to WV from Washington, DC. Which company/river is the closest and best. It will only be a day trip.

Make your reservations now. Both places fill up fast.