Whether you're an adrenaline junkie pursuing climbing, biking, hiking, or whitewater rafting, or prefer a relaxing picnic, quiet birdwatching, or camping by the river, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offers endless possibilities. Explore the area's rich cultural history and historic sites. From extreme sports to serene escapes, there's something for everyone.

New River Gorge carves a breathtaking swath through the Appalachian Mountains—the longest and deepest in the range—teeming with undisturbed wildlife. It's also an ultimate playground for adventure seekers. Thrill-seekers can tackle whitewater rafting or kayaking along 53 miles of the river, bracing for its exhilarating Class IV and V rapids.

Bridge Walk offers daily tours across the catwalk beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, spanning 1.25 miles from end to end. These 2- to 3-hour excursions provide ample time to ask questions, capture photos, and soak in the stunning gorge views.

Don't miss the eerie historic warning signs for miners, plus easy hikes that weave through coal towns, past waterfalls, and offer prime photo ops with America's longest arch bridge.

Whitewater Rafting

For heart-pounding Class IV and V rapids, head to the New and Gauley rivers. In summer, the lower New River is ideal for cooling off with high-adrenaline action. Local outfitters provide all-inclusive packages for unforgettable river runs. And remember, West Virginia's outdoor season extends beyond summer.

Rock Climbing

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve boasts over 1,400 established rock climbs, making "The New" one of the nation's top climbing destinations. The cliffs feature hard sandstone, ranging 30 to 120 feet high, with abundant cracks and face routes. Most routes suit advanced and expert climbers (5.9+), with sport routes typically 5.10–5.12.

Hiking

Trails vary from 1/4 mile to 7 miles, connectable for longer hikes. Difficulties range from easy flat paths to steep challenges. Get trail maps and recommendations at Canyon Rim, Grandview, Sandstone, and Thurmond visitor centers. Enjoy peaceful forests, scenic overlooks, and historic sites across maintained park trails, state park paths, and undeveloped routes.

Biking

Stunning landscapes and trails from beginner-friendly to expert make New River Gorge a premier East Coast mountain biking spot. Discover bike shops, trails, outfitters, and guided tours throughout the region.

Adventure Lake

ACE Adventure Resort, a top family vacation spot with epic views, features a spring-fed lake water park with slides, inflatables, ziplines, and the thrilling BLOB. Relax on the white-sand beach for sunbathing or volleyball. On-site dining lets you stay all day. Cabins, ziplining, rafting, and fine dining make it ideal for thrill-seekers and nature lovers on this 1,500-acre paradise.

Zipline

ACE's New River Gorge zipline—the only one with gorge views—delivers 9 cliffside zips, dual lines for racing friends, and sky bridges over trees and streams. Ride by day or night with helmet-mounted headlamps for an unforgettable thrill.

Small Towns

Fayetteville

Near the nation's newest national park, Fayetteville is perfect for adventurers. Enjoy world-class whitewater rafting, hiking, climbing, and biking, plus tasty local eats and unique shops in this charming town.

Lewisburg

A short drive away, Lewisburg offers warm small-town charm. Its picturesque, artsy, historic downtown—one of West Virginia's most walkable—beckons for shopping, sightseeing, and dining.