New River Gorge National Park: A First Time Visitor Guide
A few years ago New River Gorge because a national park and for good reason as it has a lot of amazing things to do that blend together nature activities with feats of engineers (I’m talking of course about the gigantic bridge it’s iconic for). In this post you’ll get a full guide to exploring this amazing place and everything you need to know about the trip.
Basic info:
- Name: New River Gorge National Park
- Location: West Virginia
- Entrance fee: Free
- Things to do: Scenic drives, trains, hiking, kayaking and more (see visitor recommendations)
- Hotels? See closest options
Overview:
The New River Gorge, located in southern West Virginia, is a premier outdoor destination in the United States, attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike. As one of the newest national parks, designated in December 2020, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking breathtaking landscapes, thrilling activities, and rich history. The park covers over 70,000 acres, with the New River cutting through the heart of it, offering spectacular views and endless opportunities for exploration.
Despite its “new” name, the New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, estimated to be between 10 and 360 million years old. It flows northward through the Appalachian Mountains, carving out the dramatic gorge that we see today. The New River Gorge is famous for its towering cliffs, forested canyons, and adrenaline-pumping activities like white-water rafting, rock climbing, and hiking.
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Best times to go:
- Spring (March-May): Spring is one of the best times to visit if you’re looking to avoid crowds and enjoy mild weather. This is also a great time for wildflower viewing as the forests come alive with vibrant colors.
- Summer (June-August): Summer is peak season, especially for water sports like rafting and kayaking. The weather is warm, and the water levels are ideal for rafting on the New River’s lower sections, known for its Class III-V rapids.
- Fall (September-November): Fall is perhaps the most popular time to visit the Gorge, thanks to the stunning fall foliage. The colors transform the landscape, making every viewpoint and trail an even more breathtaking experience. It’s also a great time for hiking and climbing as temperatures cool down.
- Winter (December-February): Winter brings a quieter, more serene experience to the park. Although many outdoor activities slow down due to cold weather, visitors can still enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing, and taking in the snow-covered scenery.
Top Things To Do:
While the New River Gorge is known for its outdoor activities, there are several key attractions that every first-time visitor should experience.
- New River Gorge Bridge: This iconic steel-arch bridge, which stretches 3,030 feet across the gorge, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in West Virginia. Completed in 1977, the bridge stands 876 feet above the New River, making it the third-highest bridge in the U.S. The Canyon Rim Visitor Center, located near the bridge, offers excellent viewpoints and educational exhibits about the bridge and the surrounding area.
- Bridge Walk: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk along the catwalk beneath the bridge for an unforgettable experience. The guided tour offers spectacular views of the gorge below while providing fascinating insight into the bridge’s construction (see reviews).
- Fayette Station Road: For a more intimate view of the gorge and the New River, take the Fayette Station Road Scenic Drive. This narrow, winding road descends into the gorge, crosses the river, and takes you back up to the other side, offering beautiful vistas and historical sites along the way.
- Sandstone Falls: Located in the southern part of the park, Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River, spanning more than 1,500 feet across. It’s an easy drive to the falls, and a short boardwalk trail provides access to some great viewpoints. The surrounding area is also a popular spot for fishing and picnicking.
- Thurmond Ghost Town: Once a booming coal mining town, Thurmond is now a ghost town that provides a glimpse into the past. The Thurmond Depot, which serves as a visitor center during the summer, showcases the history of the town and the region’s coal industry. Visitors can explore the remnants of buildings and walk along the railroad tracks that once transported coal to markets across the country.
Top Outdoor Activities:
- White-Water Rafting: The New River is famous for its world-class white-water rafting (see best deals). The lower section of the river, known as the “Lower New,” is where you’ll find some of the most challenging rapids, ranging from Class III to Class V. Guided trips are available for beginners and experienced rafters alike. The “Upper New” is more suitable for families and those looking for a calmer float.
- Rock Climbing: With over 1,400 established climbing routes, the New River Gorge is a top destination for rock climbers. The sandstone cliffs that line the gorge provide excellent climbing opportunities for all levels. The best climbing conditions are in the spring and fall when the weather is cool and dry.
- Zip Line: There is also a famous zip line attraction located inside the park (see details).
- Mountain Biking: The Arrowhead Bike Trails offer 12.8 miles of purpose-built mountain biking trails. The trails range from beginner to intermediate levels and provide a fun and challenging ride through the forested landscape of the gorge.
- Jeep and ATV tours: There are plenty of options to consider (see the top ones)
Hiking trails:
The park boasts over 100 miles of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry hikes. Some popular trails for first-time visitors include:
- Endless Wall Trail (2.4 miles): This trail offers spectacular views of the gorge from the cliff’s edge. It’s a relatively easy hike with plenty of spots to stop and enjoy the scenery.
- Long Point Trail (3.2 miles): This moderate hike leads to one of the best views of the New River Gorge Bridge. The trail winds through the forest and ends at a rocky outcrop with panoramic views.
- Kaymoor Miners Trail (1.6 miles): For a more challenging hike, this trail descends steeply into the gorge, passing by remnants of old mining structures. The trail features nearly 800 steps, so it’s not for the faint of heart.
Wildlife and Nature:
The New River Gorge is home to a rich diversity of plant and animal life. The park’s ecosystems range from lush river valleys to rugged cliffs, providing habitats for a wide variety of species.
- Wildlife Watching: Visitors may encounter white-tailed deer, black bears, foxes, and a variety of birds, including bald eagles. The New River is also a popular fishing spot, with species such as smallmouth bass, catfish, and walleye thriving in its waters.
- Birdwatching: The gorge is a prime location for birdwatching, with species like peregrine falcons, red-tailed hawks, and the rare cerulean warbler frequenting the area.
Lodging/hotels:
There are many campsites throughout the New River Gorge and as for lodging, see the best hotel deals here.
Last Things to Know:
A trip to the New River Gorge offers an incredible mix of outdoor adventure, breathtaking scenery, and rich history. Whether you’re hiking along the scenic trails, exploring historic ghost towns, or rafting down the powerful New River, the gorge provides a memorable experience for first-time visitors. With its diverse array of activities and natural beauty, the New River Gorge is a must-see destination for anyone looking to explore the wild heart of West Virginia.
