Popular types of activities in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Updated April 26th, 2022
Popular types of activities in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

New River Gorge National River is a unit of the National Park Service that runs along the New River from Bluefield, Virginia to Hinton, West Virginia. The New River Gorge is known for its outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, rafting, and rock climbing. The New River Gorge is also home to the New River Gorge Bridge, the largest steel arch bridge in the world. The New River Gorge is a popular tourist destination for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

1. Hiking

Hiking in or near New River Gorge is a great way to get close to nature and enjoy some of the best views in West Virginia. You'll likely experience a variety of landscapes, including cliffs, ravines, and mountains. The hiking trails are well-maintained and easy to follow, so you'll be able to enjoy the views without difficulty. You'll also likely encounter a number of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and rabbits.

2. Biking

Biking in or near New River Gorge can be an enjoyable experience due to the scenic views and close proximity to multiple attractions. There are a few things to keep in mind when biking in or near the gorge: be aware of the heavy traffic, be careful around tight turns and cliffs, and be prepared for a strenuous workout.

3. Rock Climbing

Rock climbing in the New River Gorge is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area. The gorge is full of cliffs and rock formations that can be climbed, making it a great place to spend a day climbing. While climbing, be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, including hot sun, cool breezes, and rain.

4. Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting in or near the New River Gorge can be an exhilarating experience. The rapids are difficult but not impossible, and the scenery is beautiful.

5. Camping

The New River Gorge is a beautiful spot to camp. You will likely see a variety of wildlife while camping, including deer, squirrels, and birds. You may also see a few snakes or other reptiles. The gorge is also a great place to go hiking or biking.

6. Fishing

When fishing in or near the New River Gorge, anglers can expect to find a variety of beautiful, clean water that is full of life. The gorge is home to a variety of fish, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, catfish, and trout. There are many spots to fish in the gorge, so feel free to explore and find the one that is the most appealing to you. Be sure to bring plenty of food and water, a fishing rod, and a good attitude, and you're sure to have a great time fishing in or near the New River Gorge.

7. Hunting

Hunting in or near New River Gorge can be an exciting experience, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be aware of the seasonal closures. The New River Gorge National River is a National Park, and as such, there are certain areas that are closed throughout the year due to the protection of the river and its wildlife. The most heavily visited areas are usually open from early spring until late fall, but there are a few other areas that are open year-round. Second, be aware of the hunting regulations. In New River Gorge National River, hunting is allowed only during designated open hunting periods. During these periods, a specific area will be open to hunting, and specific game types (such as deer, turkey, or bear) will be allowed. Third, be aware of the weather conditions. The New River Gorge is in the Appalachian Mountains, and as such, it can be very cold and wet during the winter. In addition, the river can be very dangerous if it's swollen due to heavy rain. Finally, be aware of the wildlife. In New River Gorge National River, there are a number of large, powerful animals that can be dangerous if not treated with respect.

8. Sightseeing

When sightseeing in or near New River Gorge, visitors will find a variety of attractions, including world-famous waterfalls, geological formations, and historic sites. Some of the most popular attractions include the New River Gorge National River, the Red River Gorge National River, and the John Wesley Powell Memorial Museum.