The New River, one of the oldest rivers in the world, offers some of the best white-water rafting experiences in the United States. Its unique topography provides rafters with a mix of calm waters and intense rapids, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned rafters. The river is divided into two main sections: the Upper New River and the Lower New River.

Upper New River: Ideal for Beginners

The Upper New River is perfect for those new to rafting or families with children. The gentle Class I-III rapids allow for a more relaxed and scenic experience. As you float down the river, you will be surrounded by stunning landscapes, including lush forests and towering cliffs.

Lower New River: For the Thrill Seekers

If you are seeking an adrenaline rush, the Lower New River is the place to be. This section features Class III-V rapids, providing an exhilarating ride through narrow gorges and over powerful waves. Expert guides are available to ensure your safety while navigating these challenging waters.

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Hiking: Explore the Scenic Trails

New River Gorge National Park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails that showcase the park’s breathtaking beauty. With over 100 miles of trails, hikers can explore dense forests, stunning overlooks, and historic sites.

Long Point Trail

One of the most popular trails in the park is the Long Point Trail. This 3.2-mile round trip hike leads you to an incredible viewpoint overlooking the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world. The trail is moderately difficult, with a mix of shaded forest paths and rocky terrain.

Endless Wall Trail

For those looking for a more challenging hike, the Endless Wall Trail is a must. This 2.4-mile loop offers spectacular views of the gorge and the river below. The trail passes through dense forests and along cliff edges, providing numerous opportunities to take in the park’s natural beauty. Along the way, you may encounter rock climbers scaling the cliffs, adding to the excitement of the hike.

Rock Climbing: Scale the Cliffs

New River Gorge is renowned for its world-class rock climbing. With over 1,400 established climbing routes, it is a premier destination for climbers of all skill levels. The park’s sandstone cliffs provide a variety of climbing experiences, from sport climbing to traditional climbing.

Beginner-Friendly Routes

For those new to rock climbing, the Bridge Buttress area offers several beginner-friendly routes. These climbs are shorter and less technical, making them ideal for climbers looking to gain confidence and experience.

Advanced Climbing Challenges

Experienced climbers will find plenty of challenging routes throughout the park. The Kaynor Slabs and Junkyard Wall areas are known for their difficult climbs, featuring steep inclines and intricate holds. Climbing these routes requires strength, skill, and determination, but the reward is an unparalleled view of the gorge.

Biking: Ride the Trails

New River Gorge National Park offers excellent opportunities for mountain biking. The park’s diverse terrain includes single-track trails, gravel paths, and abandoned mining roads, providing a variety of biking experiences.

Arrowhead Trails

The Arrowhead Trails are a network of mountain biking trails designed and built by the Boy Scouts of America. These trails cater to riders of all skill levels, with options ranging from easy loops to more technical routes. The well-maintained trails wind through scenic forests and offer a thrilling ride.

Thurmond-Minden Trail

For a longer ride, the Thurmond-Minden Trail is an excellent choice. This 6.4-mile trail follows an old railroad bed and offers a relatively flat and easy ride. The trail passes through historic mining areas and along the New River, providing a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history.New River Gorge National Park is a haven for wildlife watching and photography. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the beauty of the park’s flora and fauna. Early morning and late evening are the best times for wildlife sightings.

Campsites and Amenities

Camping in New River Gorge National Park allows you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. The park offers several campgrounds with a range of amenities, from primitive sites to those with modern facilities.

Stone Cliff Beach Campground

The Stone Cliff Beach Campground is a popular choice for campers. Located along the banks of the New River, this campground offers primitive campsites with stunning river views. It is an excellent spot for fishing, swimming, and simply relaxing by the water.

Glade Creek Campground

For a more developed camping experience, the Glade Creek Campground provides sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water. The campground is situated near several hiking trails, making it a convenient base for exploring the park.

Diverse Ecosystem

New River Gorge National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife. From white-tailed deer and black bears to bald eagles and peregrine falcons, the park offers numerous opportunities for wildlife watching.

Best Spots for Wildlife Viewing

Some of the best spots for wildlife viewing include the Sandstone Falls area and the Grandview Overlook. Early morning and late afternoon are the ideal times for spotting animals, as they are most active during these periods.

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Fishing: Cast Your Line

Fishing in the New River and its tributaries is a popular activity. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including smallmouth bass, catfish, and muskellunge.

Top Fishing Spots

Some of the top fishing spots in the park include the Glade Creek and Meadow Creek areas. These locations offer easy access to the river and are known for their productive fishing.

Conclusion: 

New River Gorge National Park is a paradise for adventurers. With its diverse range of activities, stunning landscapes, and rich history, it offers something for everyone. Whether you are seeking the thrill of white-water rafting, the challenge of rock climbing, or the tranquility of hiking through scenic trails, this national park is the perfect destination.