Exploring New River Gorge National Park: A Thrilling Adventure in West Virginia

Activities in New River Gorge

• Whitewater rafting: With 53 miles of river, New River Gorge offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the country. The upper section has Class III rapids suitable for beginners, while the lower gorge includes challenging Class IV and V rapids. Companies like ACE Adventure Resort and Adventures on the Gorge provide guided trips.

• Rock climbing: The park is renowned for its climbing opportunities, with over 1,400 established routes. Climbing here ranges from 5.9 to 5.12 in difficulty, catering mostly to intermediate to advanced climbers.

• Hiking: Trails vary from easy to strenuous. The Long Point Trail offers panoramic views of the bridge, and the Endless Wall Trail is popular for its scenic beauty and climbing access points.

• Mountain biking & ziplining: There's plenty of terrain for biking, with trails winding through the park. For an adrenaline rush, try ziplining with operators like TimberTrek Adventure Park near Fayetteville.

• Fishing and kayaking: Both the New and Gauley Rivers provide excellent opportunities for fishing and kayaking, with spots like Sandstone Falls being particularly picturesque.

• Bridge Day: If your visit coincides with the third Saturday in October, don't miss Bridge Day, where BASE jumpers leap off the New River Gorge Bridge, an event that transforms the park into a festival of adventure.

Things to do in the vicinity

• Babcock State Park: About 20 miles southeast, visit to see the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill, hike or fish.

• Hawks Nest State Park: Just north of the bridge, offering jet boat rides, an aerial tramway and breathtaking views.

• Pipestem Resort State Park: Features family-friendly activities including an aerial tramway, zip lining and fishing tours.

• Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park: Explore Civil War history with beautiful views over the Gauley River.

• Thurmond: A ghost town on the New River. Used as the set for the movie, “Matewan” starring James Earl Jones. The Railroad tracks are active so be watchful for trains.

• Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine: Take a ride back in time in a former coal mine in Beckley, WV.

• Grandview State Park: Located at the south end of the gorge. It’s a short, easy walk to a spectacular view from the top of the gorge

Dining options

Fayetteville:

This small town has a vibrant food scene:

• Cathedral Cafe - Known for its breakfast and lunch, housed in an old cathedral.

• Wood Iron Eatery - A great spot for breakfast or dinner, especially known for its unique menu.

• Pies and Pints - For a casual meal with great pizza options.

• Secret Sandwich Society - My personal favorite. It serves unique sandwiches named for Presidents and chips.

• Tudor’s Biscuit World - A WV staple. Known for the best biscuit sandwiches. Open for breakfast and lunch. Eat like a local.

Beckley:

A bit further out but has more dining options:

• Tamarack Marketplace - Not just a place to eat but a cultural center with various eateries.

• Pascuale’s - Italian eating at it’s finest.