New River Gorge - RVing with Rex

New River Gorge National Park: A First Timers Guide

New River Gorge National Park is a premier outdoor destination attracting adventurers and nature lovers alike

Tucked away in the mountains of West Virginia about an hour from Charleston, West Virginia, the New River Gorge has largely been an underrated travel destination. Yes, locals have long known about this incredible natural playground; it’s been popular among whitewater-rafting enthusiasts for decades and Appalachian families have lived symbiotically with the land for generations. But many first learned about the New River Gorge in 2020 when it became the nation’s 63rd, and newest, national park.

For those venturing here for the first time, use this guide to discover what to see and do, where to eat and drink, and where to camp in the New River Gorge National Park.

New River Gorge National Park © *Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

History of New River Gorge

A rich history that spans millions of years

The history of the New River Gorge is rich and multifaceted, reflecting a deep connection between natural forces and human activity over centuries.

Native Americans lived in the New River Gorge region for centuries before European explorers arrived. The river served as a travel route for indigenous peoples. In the 1600s, fur traders and explorers navigated the river with the Batts-Fallam expedition in 1671 marking one of the earliest English claims west of the Alleghenies. The gorge was also part of the remarkable escape route of Mary Draper Ingles in the mid-1700s after her capture by Shawnee Indians.

The arrival of the railroad in 1873 transformed the isolated region enabling coal mining and timber industries to flourish. The railroad followed the river, facilitating coal shipment and the growth of coal towns. This industrial boom brought waves of immigrants who worked in difficult and often dangerous conditions. Labor struggles including strikes and unionization efforts were significant highlighted by events like the Battle of Blair Mountain in 1921, the largest labor uprising in U.S. history since the Civil War.

As coal mining declined through the 20th century, many towns were abandoned and nature reclaimed much of the landscape. In the 1960s, the New River began gaining attention for recreation, particularly whitewater rafting. The construction of the New River Gorge Bridge in 1976 dramatically improved access and connectivity in the region.

In the 1970s, the area began gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and was first named a protected area in 1978 when it became a national river. It now offers a wide range of activities including white-water rafting, climbing, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, climbing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even base jumping (at least for one day of the year, Bridge Day).

New River name origin

The origin of the name is unclear with several theories proposed

The New River is ironically named because despite being one of the oldest rivers in North America—estimated to be around 65 million to over 300 million years old—it was called “New River” for reasons unrelated to its age. One widely accepted explanation is that early European explorers such as Captain Byrd in 1764 used maps like the Fry-Jefferson map of 1755 that did not show this river. Since it was not on the map, Byrd and others referred to it as the “New River” to denote it as a newly discovered river from their perspective.

Another explanation is that the name derives from a translation of a Native American dialect meaning “new waters” which may have influenced the European settlers’ naming. Additionally, the river was once called Wood’s River after Colonel Abraham Wood, an English explorer, but the name “New River” eventually stuck.

The “new” in New River refers to its recognition or mapping by Europeans rather than its geological age which is ancient and predates the Appalachian Mountains themselves.

Lay of the land

The most prominent feature is the V-shaped canyon which plunges to depths of 1,600 feet creating steep sandstone cliffs and rugged terrain

New River Gorge National Park is 53 miles long and follows the course of the New River. It has several different access points but it can take up to an hour on meandering backroads and byways to get between them.

First-time visitors are best off focusing on the area around the Canyon Rim Visitor Center where many of the park’s most popular trails and attractions are accessible by a short drive including the iconic New River Bridge—which, with a span of 1,700 feet, is the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.

It’s also a quick, five-minute drive from the visitor center to the charming small town of Fayetteville which traces its origins back to 1837 when it was known as Vandalia, named after Revolutionary War soldier Abraham Vandal who lived and farmed there. In 1872, Vandalia was incorporated as the Town of Fayetteville in honor of the Marquis de Lafayette.

Today, Fayetteville is known as an outdoor adventure hub with whitewater rafting, rock climbing, hiking, and biking thriving due to its proximity to the New River Gorge National Park. The town’s historic district which includes about 75 historic homes and buildings is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and walking tours are available for visitors interested in its heritage

Itinerary: If you only have one or two days . . .

Focus on the Canyon Rim area which offers some of the park’s most iconic views and experiences

To get a good sampling of what the park has to offer in one day, take a sunrise hike on the Endless Wall Trail, a half-day whitewater-rafting trip on the New River (also known as “the New”), and a sunset drive on Fayette Station Road.

If you’re around for a second day, head out on a half-day climbing tour with an experienced guide then hike or mountain bike on Long Point Trail for a sunset view of the gorge. Alternatively, hop on the Kaymoor Miners Trail for a hike while learning more about local mining history. Once the sun goes down, mosey over to nearby Arrowhead Bike Farm for beers and brats at its restaurant, The Handle Bar and Kitchen, or the women-owned brewery, Freefolk, just a few more minutes’ drive down the road.

Things to do in New River Gorge National Park

Hike in, near, or around the gorge

If you only have time for one hike, opt for the Endless Wall Trail, an easy 2.2-mile loop that takes hikers past a dramatic view of the New River Gorge and Bridge at a stunning vista point called Diamond Point. It’s especially magical at sunrise, when fog and mist drift in and out of the canyon.

Other appealing hikes near Fayetteville and the Canyon Rim Visitor Center include:

Long Point Trail (bikes allowed): This moderate, 3.2-mile-long out-and-back trail ends at the edge of a cliff overlooking the New River Gorge and the New River Bridge on the opposite side of the canyon from Diamond Point.
Kaymoor Miners Trail: Brace yourself for a strenuous two-mile out-and-back route that heads down into the gorge to see the remains of a former mine and mining town. For a longer hike, this trail overlaps with the 8.6-mile Kaymoor Trail.
Bridge Trail: Beginning at a trailhead on Fayette Station Road, this 1.72-mile out-and-back trail is strenuous at times as it meanders through a shady forest, past some small waterfalls, and ends under the New River Bridge offering a different perspective of the landmark.

Scenic drive on Fayette Station Road

Before the New River Bridge was completed in 1977, Fayette Station Road was the area’s main two-way road but now it’s a scenic drive popular among visitors. Full of hairpin turns and vista points the road winds down to the bottom of the gorge across a narrow bridge and back up to the top. Take your time and make plenty of stops to enjoy the forest, river, and views of the iconic bridge.

Whitewater rafting on the New River

Whether you’re experienced or not, you won’t want to miss the chance to go whitewater rafting. The New River has class II to class IV rapids that are broken up by stretches of calm waters. Rafters can choose between a half-day adventure on the Lower New River (class II–IV) or Upper New River (class II–III) or a full day that includes both parts of the river and lunch.

Those with more experience should time their trip for “Gauley Season,” the six weeks after Labor Day in which the nearby dam-controlled Gauley River is open for whitewater rafting. Gauley River trips are split between Upper Gauley which runs through five class V+ rapids and a 14-foot waterfall or the comparatively calmer Lower Gauley which includes 13 miles of class III–V rapids.

Seven outfitters run rafting trips to both. We’d recommend Ace Adventure Resort or Adventures on the Gorge for anyone staying around Fayetteville.

Jet boat tour from Hawk’s Nest State Park

For another way to experience the New, take a quick drive to Hawk’s Nest State Park for a jet boat tour with New River Jet Boats. The 30-minute boat ride (plus a 15-minute drive, each way, from the ticket counter to the boat launch) takes passengers into the national park, culminating with a stunning underside view of the New River Bridge.

To make an adventure out of it, park your car at the trailhead for the Hawks Nest Rail-Trail and hike the two miles to the boat launch. This relatively flat path follows a peaceful, shady creek on what used to be a functioning railroad and ends just a few yards away from the boat launch ticket counter.

Rock climbing

The New River Gorge is popular among avid climbers, thanks to the over 1,400 established routes throughout the area. Although the majority of them are best for intermediate climbers (the difficulty grade ranges between 5.10–5.12), there are a few easier options for beginners.

If you consider yourself a beginner, head out with an outfitter like Adventures on the Gorge which runs half- and full-day climbing trips for adventures of all ages, levels, and abilities. For the experienced, we’d recommend a pit stop at Waterstone Outdoors for beta and local climbing guide books as well as some great espresso drinks from its coffee bar, stocked with beans from nearby Cherry River Roasting Co., in the back.

Mountain biking

Rather explore the trails on two wheels instead of two feet? Then grab a bike and hop on one of the area’s mountain bike trails like the easy and scenic Long Point Trail, feature-filled Corona Trail, or the gorge-adjacent Kaymoor Trail. For all your bike needs—be it rentals, tours, gear, services, or even a tasty beverage after your ride—head to Arrowhead Bike Farm. In addition to its full-service bike shop, it has a restaurant, The Handle Bar and Kitchen which serves cold beers and warm brats (vegan options available) and has a campground and a small farm with a motley crew of resident goats.

Where to eat and drink

These options provide a range of dining experiences from gourmet to casual, all near the New River Gorge National Park

Some of the best places to eat in and around Fayetteville include:

Wood Iron Eatery

Open for breakfast and lunch with a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and meat options, Wood Iron Eatery is one of the best options for a fresh, healthy meal. You won’t want to miss the selection of sweet and savory waffles, the “Big Green Salad,” or any of the heartier sandwiches and handhelds.

Freefolk Brewery

Just outside Fayetteville, the convivial Freefolk Brewery is a shining beacon of string lights on the edge of an otherwise lush, forest-lined byway. Inside, quirky pottery lines the walls behind the bar (think: ceramic mugs with faces molded onto them), while outside, a large yard with picnic tables invites visitors to linger on warm nights. Although its beers which range from hoppy IPAs to tart farmhouse ales are the stars here, don’t overlook the food menu. There’s a delicious selection of gyros and other Greek-inspired dishes as well as the state’s most popular dish, the pepperoni roll.

Pies & Pints

The original outpost of a now regional chain specializing in beer and pizza, Pies & Pints is a solid, family-friendly option for lunch or dinner. Fans swear by its out-of-the-box topping combinations like Tajín, jalapeños, and corn on an elote-inspired street corn pizza or an oddly delicious grape and gorgonzola but you can’t go wrong with a classic combo either.

Southside Junction Tap House

For a touch of nightlife, head to Southside Junction Tap House, a cozy bar and restaurant in the center of Fayetteville that regularly hosts live music. Whether there’s a show on or not, nab a seat at the bar and order a local West Virginia brew (such as those by nearby Bridge Brew). For the hungry, worry not: Be it pickles or wings, the fried snacks are perfectly crispy, and locals swear by the burgers and (only sometimes fried) taco selection.

Looking for more on New River National Park?

New River Gorge camping

Camping in New River Gorge National Park offers a variety of options with differing facilities

Arrowhead Bike Farm

Arrowhead Bike Farm provides wooded tent sites, open field camping, and RV spots suitable for small rigs and pop-ups. The campground includes shower facilities, restrooms, free Wi-Fi, and wheelchair-accessible parking, blending rustic charm with modern conveniences. This is ideal if you want a comfortable yet nature-immersed stay.

Address: 8263 Gatewood Rd., Fayetteville, WV 25840
Phone: (304) 900-5501

Babcock State Park

Babcock State Park offers a wonderful camping experience combining natural beauty, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to outdoor adventures near the New River Gorge. The campground includes tent sites, RV sites with electric and water hookups, and cozy cabins, accommodating a wide range of camping preferences. Facilities such as clean restrooms, hot showers, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and running water provide comfort while still keeping you close to nature.

Address: 486 Babcock Road, Clifftop, WV 25831
Phone: (304) 438-3004

The Outpost at New River Gorge

This highly rated campground offers a versatile experience with tent platforms, rustic cabins, and full RV hookups with 20/30/50 amp electric service. Partial hookups are also available. Its recent renovations and family-friendly amenities make it ideal if you want comfort combined with easy access to hiking and river activities.

Address: 843 Fayette Station Road, Fayetteville, WV 25840
Phone: (304) 860-9121

New River Campground Inc.

New River Campground is situated on the National New River located on scenic Midland Trail (Route 60) just above Gauley River. Campground amenities include full service hookups, a dump station, ice machine, bait shop, showers, restrooms, Wi-Fi, and boat ramp. They have 39 full hookup sites (water, electric, and sewer) and 13 rustic sites (tents only, no utilities). Each site contains a fire ring, grill, and picnic table.

The New River Campground also features a private boat launch on site and a covered shelter that may be reserved at an additional charge.

Address: 310 W Oyler Ave, Oak Hill, WV 25901, United States
Phone: (800) 927-0263

Rifrafters Campground

Located just two miles south of the New River Gorge National Park and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, Rifrafters offers easy access to hiking, biking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. Its proximity to Fayetteville means you’re close to local shops and dining while still enjoying a quiet, natural setting. The campground accommodates tents, RVs (with electric, water, and sewer hookups), and rustic cabin rentals. Sites range from sunny to shady with gravel or cement pads, and most can fit RVs up to 40 feet.

Address: 448 Laurel Creek Road, Fayetteville, WV 25840
Phone: (304) 574-1065

The best time to visit New River Gorge National Park

The best time to go depends on the activities you’re interested in and your preferences regarding weather and crowds

Summer is the most popular time to visit the New River Gorge but I’d recommend visiting in September or October when the weather cools, crowds thin out a bit, and several locally loved events occur.

September marks the start of “Gauley Season” as well as the paddle-focused festival, Gauley Fest (September 18–21, 2025).

What is Gauley Fest?

Started in 1983 to celebrate the derailment of a hydro-electric project that would have disrupted the flows on the Gauley River, Gauley Fest has grown to become the largest paddling festival in the world.

The festival is a showcase for American Whitewater and the top whitewater vendors in the boating community. The festival features live entertainment, a whitewater marketplace, raffle, and a silent auction where you can pick up some awesome outdoor gear. Come out and join us for a weekend of great paddling, exciting camaraderie, live entertainment, killer boat raffles, and the infamous silent auction.

What is Bridge Day?

Bridge Day is West Virginia’s largest single-day festival and one of the largest extreme sports events in the world. Held annually every third Saturday in October (46th annual; October 18, 2025) on the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayette County, West Virginia, this is the only day each year thousands of spectators can walk across the bridge and watch as serious BASE jumpers get their chance to fly 876 feet into the Gorge below and rappellers ascend and descend from the catwalk. Come and enjoy the view from the bridge, one of the best overlooks in the New River Gorge!

Bridge Day stats & facts

Ever wondered what goes into West Virginia’s most exhilarating festival? Check out these stats from 2024 and learn more about the history of Bridge Day:

Numbers of visitors: approximately 130,000
Number of BASE jumpers: 325 jumpers
Number of BASE jumps made: 755 and 16 tandem jumps
Number of BASE tandem jumps made: 16
No injuries or medical transports

Even if you don’t make either of these events, the dense forests around the river create a spectacular display during fall foliage season when the region’s typically hot and muggy summers begin to give way to cooler temperatures and the poplars, aspens, and cottonwood trees start to turn orange.

Park fees

Unlike many national parks, the New River Gorge is free to visit. There are no entrance or parking fees within the park.

Worth Pondering…

Country roads, take me home, to the place I belong, West Virginia, Mountain mamma, take me home, Country roads.

—John Denver

New River Gorge Is Worth Visiting: Here’s Why It’s So Amazing

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a unique and captivating destination that offers something for everyone from nature lovers to adventure seekers

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is one of West Virginia’s unique gems. It was established in 2020 to maintain and protect the famous New River Gorge, the eponymous attraction of the park. The gorge lies in the Appalachians in southern West Virginia attracting numerous visitors annually. The New River Gorge is worth visiting and is one of the gems of the Appalachians.

Apart from its stunning landscape, a magnificent ancient river known as the New River flows through the gorge from south to north, passing past three states. The New River flows through North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia before joining the Gauley River to form the Kanawha River.

Other fascinating features lying in the area include spectacular falls, historical attractions, and striking artificial landmarks. Not only do tourists visit the park for its attractions but also for the myriad of activities available.

The New River Gorge: A brief history

A lot can happen when a river keeps its course for over 300 million years

The gorge is named after the New River, an ancient river dating back over 300 million years that flows through the Appalachian Mountains. Gradual erosion caused by the river’s courseway led to the formation of the gorge.

The New River is anything but new as it dates back to the era of the supercontinent Pangea. It was formed from the collision of North American and African plates, a phenomenon that led to the formation of Pangea. The crash impacted the Appalachians by uplifting the ranges to Himalayan heights, leading to the formation of the Teays River.

Age of New River: Approx. 300 million
New River length: 360 miles
New River Gorge National Park established: 2020
National park area: 72,808 acres (114 square miles)
National park recreational visitation (2024): 1,811,937
Entry fee: None (Free)

The Teays flowed north from present-day western North Carolina through the Virginias then turned west into the Ohio River before pouring into a vast inland sea. As the mountains experienced a period of uplifts, the highly erosive kept cutting through the ranges more rapidly than the uplift rate.

Due to the waterway’s unique course running contrary to how other Appalachian rivers flow, a formidable Canyon was carved directly through the Appalachian Plateau. Over 300 million years later New River starts from the source carved by the river and then flows in the same northward course way. The deep Canyon carved by the river is now known as the New River Gorge with its unique orientation lying at the heart of one of the most extensive intact temperate forests in the world.

The gorge also acts as a biogeographical corridor for wildlife by facilitating a north-to-south movement and vice-versa. Additionally, the New River Gorge has a lot of niche habitats for diverse organisms to occupy, further supporting rich flora and fauna.

Albeit it ideally supports a north-to-south migration, New Gorge’s steep and rugged topography presents a significant obstacle when traversing from east to west. This challenge affected the indigenous communities living around the area until a steel bridge was set connecting the steep Canyon’s escarpments.

The gorge’s orientation exposed by the waterway span over 300 million years ago. One of the exposed layers in the deep Canyon is bituminous coal, a relatively soft black coal that readily burns while producing little smoke. These historically sought-after rock layers date to the Pennsylvanian carboniferous subperiod that brought forth shale and sandstone rocks.

During the Pennsylvanian period, vast swamps covered large regions of the globe, releasing thick layers of peat that eventually formed coal. The carving of the area by the New River exposed bituminous coal along the gorge leading to the rise of mining towns around the area. Mining in the area was abandoned in the 1960s, leaving behind inaccessible ghost towns that are currently fading into rapidly regenerating forests that attract numerous adventurers year-round.

Why is New River Gorge a major visitor attraction?

Wet and wild or nice and slow, New River Gorge has something for everyone

The Deep Canyon’s potential as an adventurer’s paradise is still growing with new hiking tracks, mountain biking trails, and other facilities added every year. The growth is evident in the number of visitors the park gets, clocking 1,811,937 visitors in 2024. It is clear why it has been designed the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Attractions: Hiking, rafting, camping, mountain biking, bridge jumping

What not to miss at New River Gorge

Visitors explore the area to try out the multiple outdoor activities in store for them. These adventure-filled activities include whitewater rafting, kayaking, bird watching, rock climbing, mountain biking, and camping while watching the magnificent New River flowing through.

New River Gorge carves out a vast, stunning swatch through the Appalachians making it the longest and deepest in the mountains and ideal for rock climbing the escarpments. The unique conditions around the gorge offer perfect niches for diverse wildlife making the region apt for birdwatching and game viewing.

Whitewater rafting or kayaking the river for water enthusiasts guarantees an unmatched adrenaline-pumping experience. It’s wild Class IV and Class V rapids guarantee visitors a rocky but exhilarating ride to try out the mentioned water activities.

Tip: Whitewater rafting is one of the most adventurous activities in the New River Gorge

New River Gorge has also emerged as one of the country’s most famous rock-climbing destinations. This interest comes as no surprise as the rocks at the gorge consist of hard sandstone that ranges from 30 to 120 feet in height. The deep Canyon also has abundant face and crack routes, with most routes favoring advanced and expert climbers.

Visitors also explore the area to hike the numerous emerging trails ranging from a quarter mile to seven miles in length. The hiking difficulty of the terrains varies from steep, challenging to flat, shallow walking tracks. Additionally, several of these trails can be connected to make for a more extended and more exciting excursion.

The New River Gorge also has various bike routes attracting mountain biking enthusiasts. Apart from that, travelers also enjoy ziplining, an activity also offered in the area.

Other attractions include old coal mining ghost towns in the New River Gorge National Park, like Thurmond.

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How to get to New River Gorge National Park

The best way to get to New River Gorge is by driving. The area is accessible from interstates 64, 77, 79, and U.S Route 60 (Midland Trail Scenic Highway)

New River Gorge is a haven for adventurers searching for thrilling experiences. However, since the establishment of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve more facilities catering to various visitors including families have been established.

The New River Gorge Bridge: The bridge you can jump off

One day a year it is legal to jump off of this astoundingly tall bridge that spans an Appalachian gorge

Built in 1977 to connect the hills on either side of New River Gorge, the bridge was, for years, the world’s longest single-span arch bridge made of steel (today it ranks fourth) and the highest vehicular bridge in the world. A marvel of engineering, the New River Gorge Bridge is a staggering 3,030 feet long and rises 876 feet above the rapids below.

It only took two years after the bridge opened for someone to realize it made a great place to intentionally throw oneself off of (with the intention of surviving). That man was coal mine foreman Burton Ervin who BASE jumped from the bridge to much attention from the local press and famously suggested, “They’re going to keep coming. Might as well try to make some money off of it.”

Thus was born the annual tradition of Bridge Day.

Every third Saturday in October since 1980, the New River Gorge Bridge becomes the only place in the National Parks Service dominion where it is legal to BASE jump. The first years saw only five jumpers and one hit the rocks. In a fluke twist for a sport known for its fatalities, he walked away with a broken jaw and missing most of his teeth but dismissed officials’ concerns that the fledgling festival was “dangerous” by insisting to a Charleston Daily Mail reporter that BASE jumping was “safer than marriage.”

On Bridge Day, all four lanes of the New River Gorge Bridge (which is 3,030 feet long and 876 feet above the New River) are closed to vehicle traffic and opened to pedestrians allowing people to walk across the bridge and enjoy spectacular views of the gorge. The event features a variety of activities including:

BASE jumping: Participants jump from the bridge’s catwalk 876 feet above the river making it one of the few places in the world where BASE jumping is legal and organized. BASE stands for Buildings, Antennas, Spans (bridges), and Earth (cliffs).
Rappelling: Experienced rappellers descend from the bridge using ropes with distances ranging from 700 to 851 feet.
Highlining: Walking or sliding across a rope stretched across the gorge, a thrilling activity offered to the public during the event.
Vendors, music, and other festivities add to the vibrant atmosphere.
When: Third Saturday of October (October 18, 2025)

Worth Pondering…

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
To the place, I be-long
West Virginia, mountain momma

—John Denver

BASE-Jump Off This Bridge on Bridge Day

The New River Gorge is special in that it is the only high bridge in the world to be celebrated precisely because of its height

Every year on the 3^rd Saturday of October (October 15, 2022), an official “Bridge Day” is held and the span is completely closed to vehicles. Nearly 200,000 people are then allowed to walk on the bridge for a one-day festival that is centered around the spectacular view of the New River and BASE jumping. Vehicular traffic on the Bridge is closed from 7 am until approximately 5 pm.

New River Gorge *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

When you walk out onto The New River Gorge Bridge during Bridge Day, you’ll be standing over one of the oldest river gorges on Earth. By most accounts, the New River Gorge is about 345 million years old. That makes it the top contender for being the first river in North America.

876 feet. That’s the amount of vertical space that exists between The New River Gorge Bridge and the water.

It all started with the Fayette Station Road, originally called the Gentry Road which was 1909. The bridge below the main arch bridge is the Tunney Hunsacker Bridge (often referred to as “the little bridge” by visitors.) It was the first bridge for cars to cross the New River Gorge. At the time that was the area’s engineering marvel.

In the 1960s, construction began on Route 19 also known as Corridor L. It needed to cross the New River Gorge and the only question was how. The answer was to build what was then the largest arch bridge in the world. Construction began in 1974 and was completed 3 years later in 1977.

New River Gorge Bridge *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The bridge is a structure of amazing statistics:

3,030 feet long
876 feet high
70 feet wide
88 million pounds of U.S. Cor-Ten steel and American cement

Opened and dedicated on October 22, 1977, the span has since become an iconic symbol of West Virginia.

The New River Gorge averages between 700 and 1300 feet deep. The gorge was formed solely due to erosion—there were no glaciers in the area like those that carved our similar gorges in other parts of the world. This part of the gorge is characterized by steep walls, huge boulders, and an exposed cliff band along the gorge’s rim.

The river itself is steep for its size. In the 85 miles of New River in West Virginia, the river drops a total of 850 feet. Most of that gradient is concentrated right in the gorge. It’s the drop in elevation that makes for the New River’s outstanding whitewater.

One very unique feature of the river is its course. The new river flows north (which is not in itself unusual) and bisects the entire Appalachian mountain range separating north from south.

The distance you have to walk to get from one side of the Bridge to the other may astound you. The main span of the Bridge is 1,700 feet long and the total length of the Bridge is around 3,030 feet. That is quite a walk.

It is also a walk that is special for yet another reason. The Bridge you are walking on is 876 feet above the rapids of the New River. That may not seem very tall since you just walked 3,030 feet across the Bridge but consider this fact. We could move the Washington Monument underneath the New River Gorge Bridge and still have 325 feet left of space between the two.

This makes the New River Gorge Bridge a perfect location for the BASE jumpers and rappellers that take advantage of the Bridge Day festivities.

New River *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

The BASE stands for Building, Antenna, Span, and Earth. BASE jumpers leap from any of these four fixed objects with parachutes designed specifically for rapid deployment. Known around the world as the most extreme of extreme sports, BASE jumpers look forward to Bridge Day every year.

You can also just hang out and look at it, if that’s more your speed.

The New River Gorge is a lot of things. Wilderness. Park. Vacation. Home. It has a special meaning for everyone who visits. And they have Bridge Day to celebrate all of them.

This is the only day of the year that traffic is shut down and spectators can safely and legally walk across the world’s second longest single arch bridge.

Hosted by the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce, the annual festival features food, vendors, and activities like BASE jumping, rappelling, and the High Line—a 700-foot ride down a rope from the bridge’s catwalk down to State Route 82. Courage (not experience) and early registration are the only requirements to ride the High Line.

Time is on your side—at least for six hours! Enjoy the view from the best overlook in the New River Gorge. Enjoy browsing through hundreds of vendor booths to find just the right souvenir for the day. Feeling Brave? Check out Bridge BASE Jumping or Rappel and Highline Information.

What is Bridge Day?

Bridge Day is West Virginia’s largest single-day festival and one of the largest extreme sports events in the world. Held annually every third Saturday in October on the New River Gorge Bridge in Fayette County, West Virginia, this is the only day each year thousands of spectators can walk across the bridge and watch as serious BASE jumpers get their chance to fly 876 feet into the Gorge below and rappellers ascend and descend from the catwalk.

Schedule of events

Kick off your Bridge Day weekend with Taste of Bridge Day on Friday, October 14.

Experience the High Line At Bridge Walk on October 14-16.

5:30 am: Vendors arrive at designated staging lots

7:00 am: Route 19 closes to traffic. Detour begins

7:15 am: ASWV’s Bridge Day 5K racers arrive at designated pickup spots

8:30 am: Buses begin transporting 5K racers to starting line

8:30 am: Shuttles begin at designated lots

9:00 am: Bridge Day begins

9:00 am: Bridge Day 5K Race begins

9:00 am: Into The Gorge bus rides start (pre-sold tickets only)

1:30 pm: Into The Gorge bus rides end

2:00 pm: Bridge Day chili cookoff in downtown Fayetteville

3:00 pm: Bridge Day ends

5:00 pm: Route 19 re-opens. Detour ends

Evening events happening at Adventures On The Gorge, River Expeditions, Ace Adventure Resort, and The Outpost at New River Gorge

New River Gorge National River is accessible by US-19 and Interstates 64 and 77 in south central West Virginia.

Worth Pondering…

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
To the place, I be-long
West Virginia, mountain momma

—John Denver

The Wild, Wonderful Waters of New River Gorge! Round Out Your Trip with a Visit to Babcock State Park & Glade Creek Grist Mill!

Almost Heaven awaits you at New River Gorge National Park, Babcock State Park, and Glade Creek Grist Mill

Scenic mountains and breathtaking gorge views await at the nation’s newest national park

Close your eyes and imagine a place with thousands of acres of lush green forests, rushing waters, and cascading waterfalls. Sound too good to be true? Such a place exists and it’s inside the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. Teeming with rarified beauty and endless opportunities for adventure, the New River Gorge is the perfect destination for your next road trip. Mark America’s newest national park on your map, pack up the RV, and hit the road for Almost Heaven awaits you.

The New River Gorge has always been a celebrated landmark in the Mountain State, but now it gets recognition as America’s 63rd national park. From action-packed adventures like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, fishing, rock climbing, and miles of hiking trails to the southern hospitality of nearby mountain towns, the New River Gorge is a hidden gem to discover.

Home to the New River which drops 750 feet over 66 miles, adventuresome rafters and kayakers have long been drawn to this whitewater area for its class five rapids. The New River which flows northward through low-cut canyons in the Appalachian Mountains is one of the oldest rivers on the planet. The park encompasses more than 70,000 acres of land along the New River. The rugged mountains were once home to several coal mining camps and some historical artifacts and buildings remain.

Easily accessible by Route 19 and I-64, the New River Gorge is one of West Virginia’s most photographed areas. The New River cuts through extensive geological formations. Bald eagles, peregrine falcons, osprey, kingfishers, great blue herons, beavers, river otters, wild turkeys, and black bears call this park home and you’ll often spot a few along your travels. Hiking trails here take you to spectacular overlooks and through remnants of old coal mining towns.

Begin your experience with a stop at Canyon Rim Visitor Center which is situated on the edge of the gorge for maps, current information, and chats with a park ranger. You can learn about current safety protocols and visit the bookstore. The visitor center features an exhibit room filled with photographs and exhibits on the people, towns, and industry of the gorge. Other displays focus on the recreation and natural history of the area. Visitors can view an 11-minute video to orient themselves to all that makes New River Gorge National Park and Preserve such a special and significant place.

You’ll want to see the New River Gorge Bridge, a highly photographed work of structural art. If you plan your road trip just right, you can visit during Bridge Day a one-day festival (October 16, 2021) where you’ll watch BASE jumpers launch off the 876-foot bridge and parachute down to the New River. New River Gorge is the only national park in the U.S. that permits this extreme activity.

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve provide incredible outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning landscapes but there are also several nearby West Virginia State Parks waiting to be discovered and explored. In fact, these state parks offer cozy accommodations, mountain adventures, and unparalleled scenic views.

One such state park is Babcock. Located 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge Bridge, Babcock State Park is home to 4,127 acres of iconic scenery and stunning views. Babcock State Park is best known for the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a fully functional replica of the original Cooper’s Mill that once ground grain on Glade Creek long before Babcock became a state park. Of special interest, the mill was created by combining parts and pieces from three mills that once dotted the state. The basic structure of the mill came from the Stoney Creek Grist Mill which dates back to 1890. After an accidental fire destroyed the Spring Run Grist Mill near Petersburg (Grant County) only the overshot water wheel could be salvaged. Other parts for the mill came from the Onego Grist Mill near Seneca Rocks (Pendleton County).

A living monument to the over 500 mills which thrived in West Virginia at the turn of the century, the Glade Creek Grist Mill provides freshly ground cornmeal which park guests may purchase depending on availability and stream conditions. Visitors to the mill may journey back to a time when grinding grain by a rushing stream was a way of life and the groaning mill wheel was music to the miller’s ear.

Other attractions include recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and mountain biking.

Glade Creek Grist Mill, Babcock State Park *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

Babcock is home to 28 cozy cabins tucked away in the woods. Each cabin provides a peaceful retreat to guests accompanied by the tranquil sights and sounds of nature. Several of the cabins are located near the Glade Creek Grist Mill. So close, you can almost hear the mill’s wooden frame churn. Babcock also includes a 52-unit campground if you wish to completely surround yourself in nature.

Glade Creek Grist Mill, Babcock State Park *© Rex Vogel, a*

Nature and landscape photographers who wish to fly a drone near the Glade Creek Grist Mill are required to check-in at the park office in advance. The use of drones is permitted but only from 1-3 p.m., daily. Drones may not be flown over buildings or the parking area and must stay a minimum of 20 feet away from the mill.

Start planning your next trip to the area and get ready for one-of-a-kind experiences and lasting memories.

Worth Pondering…

Country Roads

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
To the place, I belong
West Virginia, mountain momma
Take me home, country roads.

—John Denver

New River Gorge National River: A River Runs Through It

A rugged, whitewater river the New River is actually among the old rivers on Earth

Located in southern West Virginia, New River Gorge National River preserves over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River between the towns of Hinton and Fayetteville from Bluestone Dam to Hawk’s Nest Lake. The park and surrounding area are rich in cultural and natural history with an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.

New River Gorge National River *© Rex Vogel, all rights reserved*

A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep and spectacular canyons, the New River is actually among the oldest rivers on Earth. It has carved and continues to carve the deepest and longest river gorge in the Appalachian Mountains.

Established in 1978, New River Gorge National River offers something for everyone. New River, estimated to be over 250 millions year old, is the second oldest waterway in the world after the Nile. Its meandering course through the Appalachian mountains hides many natural wonders that appeal to every type of outdoor enthusiast.

New River Gorge National River is renowned for its excellent recreational opportunities: whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, birding, camping, picnicking, biking, and simply enjoying the solitude the natural world.

The upper part of the river (southern section) features rapids ranging from Class I to Class III and include long pools of steady water, whereas the Lower Gorge of the New River (northern section) is far more difficult in comparison with Class III to Class V rapids, littered with large boulders and strong currents. Commercial outfitters conduct trips down the river from April through October.

Most begin their visit to New River Gorge at the Canyon Rim Visitors Center near Fayetteville. Inside are exhibits pertaining to the gorge’s history and recreational attractions, along with an auditorium. A walking path leads to a grand overlook of the New River Gorge and the New River Gorge Bridge. Other visitors centers are located at Sandstone, Grandview, and Thurmond.

An engineering feat, the New River Gorge Bridge is the largest single steel-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. Its completion saved motorists well over an hour over narrow two-lane roads down into the New River.

A monumental steel arch built on a grand scale not often seen in bridge construction, the New River Gorge bridge opened in 1977 as the highest and longest arch bridge in the world with a height of 876 feet and a main span of 1,700 feet.

The most unusual design element of the bridge was the decision to use a special type of steel that develops a brown colored rust coating that naturally protects the steel. It saves the West Virginia Department of Transportation a million dollars for every time they would have had to paint the bridge as well as giving the span a natural, rugged look that blends into the tree-filled surroundings.

Before the arch design was chosen, other bridge types considered for the 3,030 foot long gap included a suspension bridge, a jackknife truss-arch, and a continuous truss. Luckily, the best design prevailed and West Virginia became the proud owners of one of the largest and most beautiful bridge structures in the world.

The New River Gorge is special in that it is the only high bridge in the world to be celebrated precisely because of its height. Every year on the 3rd Saturday of October an official “Bridge Day” is held and the span is completely closed to vehicles. Nearly 200,000 people are then allowed to walk on the bridge for a one day festival that is centered around the spectacular view of the New River and BASE jumping.

Bridge Day has been canceled for just the second time in its history. Concerns with the Covid-19 pandemic and ability to safely stage the event led the decision to cancel the planned 2020 installment of West Virginia’s largest one-day festival which would have been held on October 17.

Before the New River Gorge was a natural attraction, it was known more for its coal. In 1863, the first railroad line was installed through the valley, bringing industry and a boom-town mentality to a region that was all but inaccessible. Coal mining camps and support towns, such as Thurmond, prospered for the latter part of the 19th century, but all of the towns are now just mere shadows of their former selves, and most cease to exist today.

New River Gorge National River is accessible by US-19 and Interstates 64 and 77 in south central West Virginia. The Canyon Rim Visitor Center is located just north of Fayetteville via US-19. The Sandstone visitor center is off of SR-20 at I-64, exit 139. The Grandview region is accessible via I-64, exit 129 and SR-9.

Worth Pondering…

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Life is old there, older than the trees
Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home
To the place, I be-long
West Virginia, mountain momma

—John Denver

Overtourism and Undertourism in 2019

Celebrating the “Undertouristed” places for RV travel in 2019

If there was a competition for the Word of the Year in tourism, a serious contender would be “overtourism”.

From Barcelona to Bali, the Indian Ocean to the Adriatic, 2018 was the year that people in the world’s most coveted, visited, and Instagrammed places said enough was enough.

There were protests in Barcelona and Mallorca. And the New Year began with Venice vowing to charge tourists for entry.

Let’s celebrate the alternatives in 2019—the undertouristed places that deserve more visitors and where the locals won’t take to the streets and forums to protest.

Let’s hear it for undertourism in America. From the rugged mountains to the giant forests to the vast desert, the RV traveler has it all.

Overtouristed: Charleston, South Carolina and Ashville, North Carolina and Zion National Park, Utah

Undertouristed: A sampling follows

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

Capitol Reef received its name from the great white rock formations resembling the U.S. Capitol building and from the sheer cliffs that presented a barrier to early travelers.

However, it is the park’s multi-colored sandstone that earned it the nickname, “land of the sleeping rainbow”. The park runs along a huge buckle in the earth’s crust called the Waterpocket Fold. This noteworthy geologic feature is a wrinkle in the earth’s crust. Layer upon layer of rock folded over each other.

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, Kentucky

The Bernheim Arboretum in Clermont (about 30 miles south of Louisville) includes 15,625 acres of fields and forests, as well as over 40 miles of hiking trails that weave their way through the forest and a bike route that winds along Long Lick Creek.

Whether it’s hiking one of the many trails, fishing in Lake Nevin, enjoying public art, reading under a tree, or taking advantage of one of the many informative programs, Bernheim offers visitors unique opportunities to connect with nature.

New River Gorge, West Virginia

A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.

Hiking along the many park trails or biking along an old railroad grade, the visitor will be confronted with spectacular scenery. There are opportunities for extreme sports as well as a more relaxing experience.

Holmes County, Ohio

The Amish have established themselves in the Holmes County area, and it is estimated that one in every six Amish in the world live in this area. The Amish choose to live a simple way of life, which is clearly evident by the presence of horses and buggies, handmade quilts, and lack of electricity in Amish homes.

Entrepreneurial businesses owned by the Amish add to the friendly atmosphere along the byway while creating a welcome distance from the superstores of commercial America. The Swiss and German heritage of the early settlers in the county is evident in the many specialty cheese and meat products and delicious Swiss/Amish restaurants.

Okefenokee Swamp, Georgia

This pristine 680-square-mile wilderness is an ecological wonder. Wetlands provide a critical habitat for abundant wildlife and migratory birds. Take a walk on the 4,000-foot boardwalk and view the prairie from the observation tower. Visitor center offers displays and film. TAKE THE GUIDED BOAT TOUR. From the open, wet “prairies” of the east side to the forested cypress swamps on the west, Okefenokee is a mosaic of habitats, plants, and wildlife.

Worth Pondering…

This is not another place.

It is THE place.

—Charles Bowden