New River Gorge National Park

About

New Gorge River National Park is located in the central part of southern West Virginia. The park covers an area of 9.375 square miles (24.28 sq km), which is only a portion of the larger 114.06 square miles (295.42 sq km).

The river was originally established as a national river in 1978 covering a distance of 53 miles (85 km). The designated river extended from Hinton down to Hawks Nest State Park. Only about 10% of the national river area is established as the national park boundaries.

The river is the foundation of the national park. It is the longest and deepest river gorge found within the Appalachian Mountains. The river gorge features several sandstone-shale boulders that are located throughout the terrain. Some reach over 1,000 feet (300 m) of exposed boulders. Plant and animal fossils can be seen in some of the boulders adding to the intrigue of the gorge.

The river displays a variety of riverine characteristics that include backwaters, cascades, chutes, glides, rapids, riffles, runs, shoals, torrents, and waterfalls. The ecosystem is diverse featuring types of forest, forest seeps, and wetlands.

The park features both natural and cultural significance. The Nuttallburg Coal Mining Complex and Kay Moor reflect the nation’s coal mining history. There are a variety of historical ruins and architectural structures. It is a taste from life during the 18^th and 19^th centuries.

There are over 60 species of mammals calling the park area home. The Virginia big-eared and Indiana bats are two of the endangered species. There are at least 48 species of amphibians along with a variety of birds from bong birds to predators.

Photos

Things to See

Featured Wildlife

The gorge and river terrain offers a variety of ways to engage both nature and culture. The river is recognized as one of the leading whitewater rafting destinations within the United States, particularly on the eastern side of the country. The rapids range from Class III up to Class V providing excitement for those who enjoy this adventurous activity.

Rock Climbing

Rock climbing amongst the canyon rock faces is one of the most popular activities of the park. There are over 1,400 recognized climbing routes.

The majority of rock climbs are one pitch. They vary in ascent traveling from 30 to 120 feet (9.1 to 36.6 m) in height. Most of these climbs are considered technical climbs for experienced climbers.

New River Gorge Bridge

The bridge extends across the gorge and over the river. It covers a distance of 1,700 feet (510 m) at a height of 876 feet (263 m) over the river. It is considered the world’s longest spanning steel arch bridge.

New River Gorge National Park, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and the ancient river that carves through it, is a sanctuary for wildlife, where diverse species thrive in the park’s forests, rivers, and cliffs, offering visitors a chance to witness the vibrant life that pulses through this rugged slice of Appalachian wilderness.

White-tailed Deer Common throughout the park, White-tailed Deer are a familiar sight, gracefully moving through forests and meadows, especially noticeable at dawn and dusk.

Black Bear Symbolizing the wild heart of the Appalachians, Black Bears are observed across the park, from dense woodlands to river corridors, embodying the spirit of wilderness.

River Otter Once nearly vanished from the area, River Otters have made a remarkable comeback, now seen playing and fishing in the park’s waterways, a joy to watch.

Peregrine Falcon After successful reintroduction efforts, Peregrine Falcons now soar above the gorge, their incredible speed and agility on display as they hunt for prey.

Bald Eagle The majestic Bald Eagle, a symbol of American freedom, is spotted along the New River, a testament to the park’s healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Raccoon Ubiquitous and curious, Raccoons are often encountered by visitors, especially at campsites, showcasing their adaptability and mischievous nature.

Eastern Box Turtle Moving slowly through the underbrush, Eastern Box Turtles are a colorful and endearing presence, their domed shells a mosaic of earthy hues.

Turkey Wild Turkeys are a common and impressive sight, their large flocks moving through the park’s forests and fields, especially noticeable in the early morning.

Bat Species Several bat species, crucial for insect control, navigate the night skies of the park, a vital component of the ecosystem’s health and balance.

Red Fox The sleek Red Fox, with its distinctive bushy tail and reddish fur, can occasionally be seen at dusk or dawn, a silent hunter of the woods.

New River Gorge National Park’s wildlife, from the agile River Otter to the soaring Bald Eagle, enriches the visitor experience, illustrating the beauty and resilience of Appalachian nature in one of America’s newest national parks.

Things To Do

Engaging New River Gorge

Whitewater Rafting

Experience the thrill of navigating the rapids of the New River Gorge on a whitewater rafting adventure. Join a guided rafting trip led by experienced outfitters, who will lead you through exciting Class III to V rapids as you traverse the scenic canyon.

Feel the rush of adrenaline as you paddle through swirling whitewater, navigate challenging drops, and take in breathtaking views of the rugged gorge walls towering above. Whitewater rafting in New River Gorge offers an exhilarating and unforgettable outdoor experience for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Hiking

Explore the scenic trails of New River Gorge National Park on a hiking adventure. Traverse through lush forests, along rocky ridges, and to breathtaking overlooks that offer panoramic views of the gorge below.

Choose from a variety of hiking trails suited for all skill levels, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging treks. Highlights include the Endless Wall Trail, which winds along the rim of the gorge and offers stunning views of the river below, and the Long Point Trail, which leads to a scenic overlook with sweeping vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Scenic Drives

Experience the beauty of New River Gorge from the comfort of your car on scenic drives through the park. Cruise along winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the rugged canyon, lush forests, and rushing river below.

Stop at designated overlooks and viewpoints to capture photographs of the stunning landscapes and perhaps spot wildlife along the way. The Grandview Rim Scenic Drive and the Fayette Station Road offer some of the most scenic routes in the park, with opportunities for sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the gorge.