Tygart Valley Falls - Whitewater Rafting

Review

Intro

The paddling community’s name for this stretch of whitewater is a combination of the waterway, the Tygart River, and the park it flows through, Valley Falls State Park. There's a lot to love about the Tygart Valley Falls run, like its location in Fairmont, WV, and the relatively short (1.5 mile) run. Perhaps the best part of this section of the Tygart River, though, is that it runs swiftly even when other area rivers and tributaries have gone dry. Experienced kayakers will appreciate the steady pace of this river and the falls.

What Makes It Great

The Tygart Valley Falls run can be relatively easy for intermediate paddlers at some water levels, while still being fun for experienced paddlers. For any boaters that are a bit leery of whitewater, the Tygart River has some flatwater areas in this section, too. There is plenty of camping, shops, and restaurants nearby, too.

Who is Going to Love It

The majority of whitewater rapids in the Tygart Valley Falls run are Class III, but some are IV. They are an exciting challenge for both intermediate and experienced paddlers. There are also plenty of places to paddle on flatwater, if that's more your style.

Directions, Parking, & Regulations

Take I-79 to Exit 137, then take Rt. 310 south for 7 miles. Turn right at the Valley Falls State Park sign. Go 2 miles and you will see the park entrance. Because of the difficulty of some of the rapids, all boaters (even flatwater paddlers) have to sign in at the park’s main office.