Your Ultimate Guide to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Tucked away in the rugged heart of West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a must-visit for any outdoor lover, thrill-seeker, or those looking for a scenic escape. Whether you’re craving adrenaline-pumping whitewater rapids, breathtaking hiking trails, or simply some of the most jaw-dropping views in the eastern U.S., this park delivers in spades.

But before we dive into the adventures that await, let’s get our bearings.

Where is New River Gorge National Park?

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve sits in southern West Virginia, stretching across Fayette, Raleigh, and Summers counties. The park follows the winding path of the New River, which—fun fact—is actually one of the oldest rivers in the world. It has spent millions of years carving out the dramatic 1,000-foot-deep canyon that makes this park so special.

It’s conveniently located near Beckley, WV, and about an hour from the state capital, Charleston. If you’re coming from further away, Charleston Yeager Airport (CRW) is your closest option for air travel.

When Did New River Gorge Become a National Park?

The area was designated a national river in 1978, but it wasn’t until December 2020 that it officially became the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve—making it the newest addition to the U.S. National Park System.

What’s unique about its “national park and preserve” status? This allows for both conservation and recreational use, meaning visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while still protecting the park’s rich ecosystems and historical sites.

Things to Do at New River Gorge National Park

Now, let’s get to the good stuff—what to do when you visit!

Hiking New River Gorge National Park and Preserve Trails

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a leg-burning challenge, New River Gorge has over 100 miles of trails. Prepare for stunning overlooks, lush forests, and even remnants of the park’s coal-mining past as you hike your way through the WV mountains.

Some must-try hikes include:

• Endless Wall Trail (2.4 miles round trip) – Voted one of the best hikes in the U.S., this moderate trail offers stunning cliffside views.
• Long Point Trail (3.2 miles round trip) – A moderate hike leading to one of the best panoramic views of the New River Gorge Bridge.
• Grandview Rim Trail (3.2 miles one way) – An easy-to-moderate hike with unbeatable sunset views.

White Water Rafting in New River Gorge

If you came for thrills, whitewater rafting in the New River is a must. This river boasts some of the best rapids in the country, with sections ranging from Class I to Class V.

• Upper New River: Great for beginners and families, with gentle rapids and plenty of swimming spots.
• Lower New River: Perfect for adrenaline junkies, featuring wild Class III to Class V rapids that’ll get your heart racing.

Several outfitters offer guided rafting trips, including Adventures on the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort, and River Expeditions.

Rock Climbing in New River Gorge

The New River Gorge boasts over 1,400 climbing routes, making it one of the top climbing destinations in the U.S. The gorge’s Nuttall Sandstone cliffs feature solid faces with plenty of handholds—ideal for sport and traditional climbing.

Popular climbing areas include:

• Endless Wall: A favorite among experienced climbers for its vertical challenges.
• Kaymoor Slabs: Perfect for beginners looking to get a feel for outdoor climbing.
• Bridge Buttress: Located right by the New River Gorge Bridge and packed with short but fun routes.

Fishing in New River Gorge

For those who prefer a laid-back escape, fishing in New River Gorge is an excellent way to soak in the scenery. The New River is home to smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish, making it a top fishing destination in the region.

Pro tip: Catch-and-release is encouraged, and you’ll need a West Virginia fishing license before casting your line.

New River Gorge Bridge – A Must-See Landmark

Standing 876 feet above the river, the New River Gorge Bridge isn’t just the most iconic structure in West Virginia—it’s one of the longest single-span arch bridges in the world! Here are a few reasons to make this important landmark a part of your trip:

Bridge Walk

Want to get a one-of-a-kind view? The Bridge Walk tour lets you walk along a two-foot-wide catwalk beneath the bridge 851 feet above the river. It’s completely safe (you’re harnessed in!), but it’s not for the faint of heart.

Bridge Day WV

Every third Saturday in October, adrenaline junkies take over the bridge for Bridge Day, West Virginia’s biggest extreme sports festival. Visitors can watch daredevils BASE jump, rappel, and zipline off the bridge. If you’re looking for a bucket-list-worthy experience, this is it.

Final Thoughts

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is an outdoor experience you can’t miss. Whether you’re hiking, rafting, climbing, or simply soaking up the views, there’s something here for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!