Discover Why West Virginia's Only National Park is Often Overlooked—Your Guide to Visiting

Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia, about an hour from Charleston, the New River Gorge is a hidden gem for travelers. While locals have known of this stunning natural haven for years, especially whitewater rafting fans, it gained national attention in 2020 when it became the country's 63rd national park. If you're visiting for the first time, this guide will help you explore activities, dining options, and accommodations in New River Gorge National Park.

The Story of New River Gorge

With its distinctive ecosystems, the recent designation as a national park comes with well-deserved additional protections. Despite its name, the New River is estimated to be between 10 million and 360 million years old, making it the second oldest river globally. The surrounding forests boast over 1,500 plant species, ranking it among the most biodiverse areas in the Appalachian region.

Humans have a rich and ancient history in this region as well. Archaeological findings indicate human artifacts in the area dating back at least 12,750 years. More recently, from the late 1800s to the 1950s, the region hosted numerous coal mines, and remnants of these mines and the adjacent towns can still be discovered throughout the park.

In the 1970s, the region began to attract outdoor lovers and was designated a protected area in 1978 when it became a national river. Today, it offers a diverse array of activities such as white-water rafting, climbing, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even base jumping (at least for one day a year, known as Bridge Day).

Overview of the Terrain

New River Gorge National Park spans 53 miles and follows the winding route of the New River. There are multiple access points, but traveling between them can take up to an hour due to the winding backroads and scenic byways.

First-time visitors should concentrate on the area surrounding the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, where many of the park's top trails and attractions are just a short drive away. This includes the famous New River Bridge, which, at 1,700 feet, is the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.

It's only a quick five-minute drive from the visitor center to the charming small town of Fayetteville. Though just a few blocks long, this quaint town features outfitters for popular activities like rafting, rock climbing, fishing, and mountain biking, along with a variety of accommodations, shops, and dining options either in town or nearby.

Suggested Itinerary: If you have just one or two days . . .

To experience a taste of what the park offers in a single day, start with a sunrise hike on the Endless Wall Trail, followed by a half-day whitewater rafting trip on the New River (often referred to as “the New”), and wrap up with a sunset drive along Fayette Station Road.

If you have a second day, consider embarking on a half-day climbing tour with a knowledgeable guide, then enjoy a hike or mountain bike ride on the Long Point Trail for a stunning sunset view of the gorge. Alternatively, take the Kaymoor Miners Trail to delve into the local mining history. Once evening falls, head over to Arrowhead Bike Farm for drinks and snacks at its restaurant, The Handle Bar and Kitchen, or visit the women-owned brewery, Freefolk, just a few minutes further down the road.

Activities to Experience in New River Gorge National Park

Explore the Trails In, Near, or Around the Gorge

If you can only choose one hike, the Endless Wall Trail is a fantastic option. This easy 2.2-mile loop guides hikers to breathtaking views of the New River Gorge and the Bridge from a lookout known as Diamond Point. It’s particularly enchanting at sunrise when fog and mist weave through the canyon.

Other fantastic hikes around Fayetteville and the Canyon Rim Visitor Center include:

• Long Point Trail (bicycles permitted): This moderate, 3.2-mile out-and-back trail culminates at a cliff's edge, offering breathtaking views of the New River Gorge and the New River Bridge, situated across the canyon from Diamond Point.
• Kaymoor Miners Trail: Prepare for a challenging two-mile out-and-back trek that descends into the gorge to explore the remnants of an old mine and mining town. For those seeking a longer hike, this trail connects with the 8.6-mile Kaymoor Trail.
• Bridge Trail: Starting from a trailhead on Fayette Station Road, this 1.72-mile out-and-back path can be strenuous at times as it winds through a shaded forest, passes several small waterfalls, and leads to a viewpoint beneath the New River Bridge, offering a unique perspective of this landmark.

Scenic Drive Along Fayette Station Road

Prior to the completion of the New River Bridge in 1977, Fayette Station Road served as the primary two-way route in the area. Today, it’s a beloved scenic drive for visitors. Filled with sharp turns and lookout points, the road descends into the gorge, crosses a narrow bridge, and ascends back up. Take your time and stop frequently to appreciate the forest, river, and stunning views of the iconic bridge.

Experience Whitewater Rafting on the New River

Whether you're a novice or a pro, the thrill of whitewater rafting awaits you. The New River features class II to class IV rapids, interspersed with serene stretches of water. You can opt for a half-day trip on the Lower New River (class II–IV) or the Upper New River (class II–III), or go for a full-day adventure that covers both areas and includes lunch.

For those seeking a more intense experience, plan your visit during “Gauley Season,” the six weeks following Labor Day when the nearby dam-controlled Gauley River opens up for rafting. You can tackle the challenging Upper Gauley, which boasts five class V+ rapids and a 14-foot waterfall, or enjoy the slightly milder Lower Gauley, featuring 13 miles of class III–V rapids.

Seven different outfitters offer rafting excursions on both rivers. We recommend Ace Adventure Resort or Adventures on the Gorge for anyone visiting the Fayetteville area.

Jet boat adventure from Hawk’s Nest State Park

For a unique way to explore the New, take a short drive to Hawk’s Nest State Park and enjoy a jet boat tour with New River Jet Boats. This 30-minute ride (plus a 15-minute drive each way from the ticket counter to the launch site) whisks passengers into the national park, ending with a breathtaking view from below the New River Bridge.

To enhance your experience, park at the trailhead for the Hawks Nest Rail-Trail and hike the two-mile path to the boat launch. This easy, flat trail meanders alongside a tranquil, shaded creek, following the route of a former railroad, and arrives just a short distance from the boat launch ticket counter.

Rock climbing

The New River Gorge attracts passionate climbers, boasting over 1,400 established routes. Most of these routes are ideal for intermediate climbers, with difficulty levels ranging from 5.10 to 5.12, but there are also a few easier paths suited for beginners.

If you're just starting out, consider teaming up with an outfitter like Adventures on the Gorge, which offers half-day and full-day climbing trips for adventurers of all ages and skill levels. For seasoned climbers, make sure to stop by Waterstone Outdoors for local climbing guides and books, along with excellent espresso drinks made from beans sourced from Cherry River Roasting Co., located at the back of the shop.

Mountain biking

Prefer to explore the trails on two wheels instead of on foot? Grab a bike and hit one of the local mountain bike trails, such as the easy and picturesque Long Point Trail, the feature-rich Corona Trail, or the gorge-side Kaymoor Trail. For all your biking needs—rentals, tours, gear, and even a refreshing drink post-ride—visit Arrowhead Bike Farm. This full-service bike shop also includes a restaurant, The Handle Bar and Kitchen, serving cold beers and warm brats (with vegan options available), along with a campground and a small farm featuring a charming assortment of resident goats.

Where to dine and unwind

Some of the top dining spots in and around Fayetteville include:

Wood Iron Eatery

Serving breakfast and lunch, Wood Iron Eatery offers a range of vegan, vegetarian, and meat dishes, making it a fantastic choice for a fresh and nutritious meal. Be sure to try their delightful selection of sweet and savory waffles, the “Big Green Salad,” or any of their robust sandwiches and handheld options.

Freefolk Brewery

Just outside Fayetteville, the vibrant Freefolk Brewery glows with string lights along a lush, forested road. Inside, whimsical pottery decorates the walls behind the bar (imagine ceramic mugs with charming faces), while the spacious yard outside, complete with picnic tables, invites guests to relax on warm evenings. While the beers, ranging from hoppy IPAs to tangy farmhouse ales, take center stage, don’t miss out on the food menu. It features a delightful assortment of gyros and Greek-inspired dishes, alongside the state’s beloved specialty, the pepperoni roll.

Pies & Pints

The original location of a now-growing chain known for its beer and pizza, Pies & Pints is a fantastic family-friendly choice for lunch or dinner. Patrons rave about its unique topping combinations, such as Tajín, jalapeños, and corn on an elote-inspired street corn pizza, or the surprisingly delicious grape and gorgonzola. Of course, you can't go wrong with classic combinations either.

Southside Junction Tap House

For a taste of nightlife, visit Southside Junction Tap House, a cozy bar and restaurant located in downtown Fayetteville that frequently hosts live music. Whether or not there’s a performance, grab a seat at the bar and enjoy a local West Virginia brew (such as those from nearby Bridge Brew). If you’re feeling hungry, don’t worry: the fried snacks, from pickles to wings, are perfectly crispy, and locals highly recommend the burgers and the occasionally fried tacos.

Where to stay

Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals

Situated on Fayetteville’s main street in a former bank building, Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals opened its doors in 2014 and features a collection of well-appointed one-bedroom holiday apartments, each equipped with a full kitchen, bathroom, living area, and bedroom. Local artwork adorns the hallways and staircases of this three-story walk-up (note: there are no elevators, and apartments are located on the second and third floors), adding a unique touch to each individually designed apartment.

Adventures on the Gorge

If you prefer to be nestled among the trees, gather some firewood and book a stay in one of the rustic wooden cabins at Adventures on the Gorge. Each cabin features a fire ring and charcoal grill, with some deluxe options including a private porch and hot tub.

While you’ll feel immersed in nature at this vast, family-friendly adventure resort, its location is quite convenient: just a six-minute drive to Fayetteville and three minutes to the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. While visiting, be sure to enjoy a sunset drink at Smokey’s on the Gorge or Chetty’s Pub, two nearby on-site restaurants boasting stunning, westward views of the gorge.

Camping

Inside the park, you’ll find a few first-come, first-served primitive campsites (with no drinking water and limited bathroom facilities) along with options for backcountry camping. For amenities like showers, toilets, and potable water, consider private campgrounds such as those at Arrowhead Bike Farm, or state park campgrounds like Babcock State Park (20 minutes away). Regardless of your choice, keep in mind that you are in bear country and should adhere to the National Park Service’s safety guidelines for staying safe.

The best time to visit

While summer is the peak season to explore the New River Gorge, we recommend visiting in September or October, when the weather is cooler, crowds are lighter, and several popular local events take place.

September marks the beginning of “Gauley Season” along with the paddle-centric festival, Gauley Fest (September 19–22, 2024).

Additionally, on the third Saturday of each October, the region celebrates Bridge Day, the one day each year when base jumpers are permitted to jump off the New River Bridge, attracting both jumpers and spectators alike.

Even if you miss these events, the lush forests surrounding the river offer a stunning spectacle during the fall foliage season, which typically reaches its peak around mid-October.

Park fees

In contrast to many national parks, visiting the New River Gorge is completely free. There are no entrance or parking fees within the park.

Getting there

The majority of visitors from West Virginia or neighboring states travel to the New River Gorge by car. It's approximately five hours from Washington, D.C.; four hours from Charlotte, North Carolina; three and a half hours from Pittsburgh; and four hours from Columbus, Ohio. The closest airport, West Virginia International Yeager Airport in Charleston, is just over an hour away and offers direct flights from Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, Orlando, Tampa, and Myrtle Beach.

This article was first published in 2022 and was last updated on June 12, 2024, with additional information.