In Brief:
New River Gorge National River is a scenic national park that encompasses over 50 miles of the New River and the valleys and canyons it flows through. The area used to be logging and mining territory, but now it is best known for outdoor activities, particularly whitewater rafting. The park is home to the New River Gorge Bridge, the second-longest single-arch steel bridge in the world and, at 876 feet, the second-highest bridge in the United States.
Getting There:
You can drive to New River Gorge National River via Interstate 64 or West Virginia Route 19. You can also reach the park by Amtrak train.
Admission and Hours:
The park is open all year long, but the visitor centers close on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission to the park is free.
Address and Telephone Number:
New River Gorge National River
P. O. Box 246
Glen Jean, WV 25846
Telephone: (304) 465 – 0508
About New River Gorge National River::
New River Gorge National River attracts over one million visitors each year. Some come for the spectacular views from the park's Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Others come for the whitewater rafting. Still more come to New River Gorge to explore West Virginia's history and heritage, as it was here that legendary steel driver John Henry challenged the steam-driven drilling machine, and here that coal miners and loggers worked to carve a dangerous living out of the canyons and mountainsides.
Outdoor Activities
You'll find plenty to do at New River Gorge National River. Several professional outfitters offer whitewater rafting trips. Rock climbing is also extremely popular. You can hike one of the many trails or just stroll out onto the Canyon Rim Visitor Center for a good look at the New River Gorge Bridge and the canyon it spans. Anglers will enjoy fishing in the river; remember to buy a West Virginia fishing license before you head toward one of the public access points along the river. Mountain bikes are permitted on certain trails; check at one of the park's visitor centers for information.
Things to Know About New River Gorge National River:
- If you are an inexperienced paddler, book a rafting trip with a professional outfitter. While some of the rapids on the New River are Class I to Class III, many are Class III to V and should not be attempted by novices.
- Plan for changes in weather. Check the forecast if you plan to visit during winter months, as you may encounter snow, rain or fog.
- Respect private property boundaries within the park.
- If you visit the park during hunting season, consider wearing blaze orange clothes so hunters will see you.
- There is no park-operated lodging at New River Gorge National River. Primitive campgrounds are available, or you can stay at a privately-owned motel or campground.
