Summer runs are possible. I have run the Upper to a low of 350cfs in a puma. Don't recommend doing that. I suggest a low of about 600cfs for a small raft. Iron ring is very dangerous at about 1500cfs and i suggest walking it between 1300-1700. Middle Gauley starts below Woods ferry (the new public access) with only one significant rapid Back ender, and aside from being pool, drop has nothing in common with the New. If this is your first attempt at the Upper, I suggest a Lower run first, and only if you consider that ridiculously easy, try to hook up with others in the parking lot and tag along. Some rapids are not boat scout-able, nor bank scout-able. Be careful, mistakes on the Upper are punishing.