New River Gorge National Park

Pictures courtesy of the -New River Gorge National Park. 

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, a rugged and breathtaking expanse of natural beauty nestled in the heart of West Virginia. Established as America’s newest national park in 2020, New River Gorge boasts stunning vistas, ancient forests, and the awe-inspiring New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. From world-class rock climbing and whitewater rafting to serene hiking trails and scenic overlooks, this outdoor paradise offers something for every adventurer, nature lover, and outdoor enthusiast to explore and discover. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures or tranquil moments in nature, New River Gorge National Park beckons with its diverse landscapes and endless opportunities for adventure.

Website:	New River Gorge National Park
Map:	Park Map
Visitor Centers:	Canyon Rim Visitor Center: Situated on the edge of the gorge, the Canyon Rim Visitor Center serves as the gateway to New River Gorge National Park. Here, visitors can access essential information on park regulations, safety guidelines, and current trail conditions, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit to this outdoor haven. Engaging exhibits and interpretive displays offer insights into the park’s rich cultural history, diverse wildlife, and geological wonders, enriching visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the New River Gorge. Sandstone Visitor Center: Located near the southern end of the park, the Sandstone Visitor Center provides valuable resources and services for visitors exploring the lesser-known areas of the park. Interactive exhibits showcase the unique ecosystems, flora, and fauna found within the park, fostering a deeper connection to the natural world and inspiring conservation efforts for future generations. Grandview Visitor Center: Offering panoramic views of the gorge and surrounding landscapes, the visitor center serves as a scenic backdrop for visitors to New River Gorge National Park. From this vantage point, guests can marvel at the dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and meandering river below, capturing the essence of this spectacular natural wonder. Interpretive programs and ranger-led tours provide further insights into the park’s ecology, history, and recreational opportunities, creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. Thurmond Depot Visitor Center: Once among the greatest railroad towns along the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway, Thurmond recaptures the days when steel rails, steam, and coal were the major themes in our nation’s history. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing Thurmond’s railroad history and coal mining legacy while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding landscape along the New River.
How to get There:	From the North: Travelers coming from the north should take Interstate 64 West towards Beckley, West Virginia. After approximately 50 miles, take exit 129 for US-19 South towards Oak Hill/Beckley. Merge onto US-19 South and continue for about 10 miles until reaching the Glen Jean exit. Follow signs for New River Gorge National Park. From the South: For those traveling from the south, take Interstate 77 North towards Beckley, West Virginia. After approximately 50 miles, take exit 42 for US-19 North towards Oak Hill. Merge onto US-19 North and continue for about 14 miles. Take the Glen Jean exit and follow signs for New River Gorge National Park.

Nestled within the rugged terrain of West Virginia, New River Gorge National Park & Preserve stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. Established in 2020, this expansive park spans over 70,000 acres along the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. With its towering cliffs, lush forests, and world-class outdoor recreation opportunities, New River Gorge National Park offers a captivating destination for adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and history buffs alike.

Within New River Gorge National Park, visitors can explore a multitude of iconic destinations that showcase the park’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the towering sandstone cliffs of Endless Wall to the scenic overlooks at Grandview, each area offers its own unique attractions and opportunities for exploration. Hikers can traverse miles of trails that wind through ancient forests and along the rim of the gorge, while whitewater rafters can navigate the thrilling rapids of the New River below. With its abundance of outdoor activities and stunning vistas, New River Gorge National Park promises an unforgettable adventure for visitors of all ages.

Beyond its recreational opportunities, New River Gorge National Park plays a vital role in preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. The park provides crucial habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered species such as the Virginia big-eared bat and the Cheat Mountain salamander. Additionally, the park’s historic sites, including old coal mines, railroad towns, and Native American heritage sites, offer insights into the area’s industrial past and cultural significance. By protecting both the natural landscapes and cultural resources of the region, New River Gorge National Park ensures that future generations can continue to enjoy and appreciate this unique Appalachian treasure.

Endless Wall Trail: Offering stunning views of the New River Gorge and its towering sandstone cliffs, the Endless Wall Trail is a favorite among hikers and photographers. This 2.4-mile loop trail winds along the edge of the gorge, providing ample opportunities to admire the breathtaking scenery and spot wildlife such as bald eagles soaring overhead.

Long Point Trail: One of the most scenic overlooks in the park, the Long Point Trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of the New River Gorge and surrounding forests. The 1.6-mile out-and-back trail is relatively easy, making it accessible to hikers of all skill levels, and culminates in a rocky outcrop that offers sweeping vistas of the gorge below.

Thurmond Ghost Town: Step back in time and explore the historic town of Thurmond, once a bustling hub of coal mining and railroad activity. Today, the ghost town offers a glimpse into West Virginia’s industrial past, with well-preserved buildings, railroad artifacts, and interpretive signs that recount the town’s colorful history.

New River Gorge Bridge: A marvel of engineering and a symbol of West Virginia’s rugged beauty, the New River Gorge Bridge spans 3,030 feet across the gorge and towers 876 feet above the river below. Visitors can admire this architectural masterpiece from various overlooks along Fayette Station Road or take a thrilling walk across the bridge’s catwalk during Bridge Day, an annual festival celebrating the structure’s completion.

Whitewater Rafting: Experience the adrenaline rush of whitewater rafting on the New River, one of the oldest and most iconic rivers in North America. Guided rafting trips are available for all skill levels, from leisurely scenic floats to thrilling Class V rapids, offering a unique perspective of the gorge’s dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife.