Contrary to its name, The New River is one of the oldest rivers of the entire continent. It is one of the few rivers in the USA which flows from south to North. Some of the eminent geologists of this earth estimate the age of this mighty river in the range of 3 to 360 million years. New River Gorge was first a national river. On December 27th, 2020, it was officially designated as a national park. It is a unit of the United States National Park Service (NPS) designed to protect and maintain the New River Gorge in southern West Virginia in the Appalachian Mountains.
The park and the preserve stretch for 53 miles from downstream of Hilton to Hawks Nest State Park near Ansted. The national park is the abode of many cultural and natural history and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities. It has the country’s best whitewater rafting and is one of the most popular climbing areas on the East Coast. The New River has a long history of coal mining. It has a huge, rich history regarding old settlements and towns, which were once a part of West Virginia’s economy.
Tourist attractions in New River Gorge National Park
Canyon rim :
It is said to be one of the main areas of the park. It is located at the end of the New River Gorge National Park. It is exactly the place where you will find the New River Gorge Bridge, with numerous hiking and biking trails, one scenic drive on the Fayette Station Road, and several historical coal mining sights. It is a perfect place to spend your time with your lovable ones.
Thurmond Historic District:
The South of the Canyon Rim is Thurmond Historic District, also called Ghost Town. It operates as a summer visitor center. It comprises the town and a small portion of the opposite river bank. It remains untouched by modern technology. It is the evidence or link of the past and a town that holds many stories to learn and unfold. Thus, it preserves the nation’s heritage. Despite being a ghost town and having a population of only 5 people, it is still an active stop.
Grandview :
It is said to be one of the favourite parts of the park. It gives a mesmerizing view with the two best hiking trails. It is situated from 1400 feet above the river at Main Overlook. On a very clear day, you can look into the heart of New River Gorge National Park, including the seven miles of the New River and its watershed. The visitors can also get a glimpse of the gorge’s unique cultural history. You can see the active railway and the town of Quinnimont. It also has a spectacular display of Catawba rhododendrons, which bloom every spring.
Sandstone Falls :
Do you love waterfalls? If yes, Sandstone Falls must be on your bucket list. It is located at the southern end of the park and is the largest waterfall on the New River. It is divided by a series of islands, and the river drops 10 to 25 feet. It marks the transition zone of the New River from large bottomlands to a narrow mountain river roaring through a deep boulder-strewn V-shaped gorge.
Things to do in New River Gorge National Park:
There are numerous things you can do in New River Gorge National Park because of its geographical location. The activities begin from the North with the canyon rim and end in the south with Sandstone Falls. The activities with places are listed below.
- Things to do in Canyon Rim:
The Canyon Rim visitor centre is a great place to start your adventurous journey. If you have any doubt regarding the place, you may contact them or speak to a forest ranger. You can travel through Fayette Station Road Drive or the African American Heritage Auto Tour. After that, you may visit the New River Gorge Bridge for a perfect Bridge walk. It is one of the highest bridgesBridge. It is said to be one of the most thrilling and exciting parts of the New River Gorge National Park. In order to get to the lower overlook, walk down 178 steps, and you will witness one of the most beautiful views you might have ever witnessed. It is one of the largest extreme sporting events in the world. There is also a zip line that runs from the Bridge to Fayette Station Road. It is a really cool experience for those who are looking to do something unique in this national park.
Bridge Walk offers tours and starts at $75.
- Things to do in Thurmond Historic District:
It was the time of the early 1900s when this town was a hustle. Coal was brought from a nearby mine and shipped out through the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. Once upon a time, it was one of the richest towns in West Virginia. However, gradually, coal production declined and the town was closed. Today, the historical buildings, boarding houses, banks, saloons, and hotels are left to tell the stories of ghost towns.
- Things to do in Grandview:
Grandview is said to be the favorite area of the park. The views of the New River are great and impressive, and the Castle Rock Trail is one of the most talked about hikes in New River Gorge National Park. You can also enjoy the view of a horseshoe bend in the New River.
- Things to Sandstone:
The Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River Gorge National Park, after a series of boardwalk trails and bridges for the views of upper and lower falls. You can also get a closer view of the fall through other viewpoints of the falls. At the end of the trail there is an Island. For the views of the upper falls, you have to head left. There is a beach which offers a great view of the upper falls. If you want to get even closer, you have to scramble up into the rocks closer to the falls.
Things to do Outside New River Gorge National Park:
Here are some of the locations that are not a part of the official national park but they are worth it to enjoy.
- African-American Heritage Auto Tour:
It is a self-guided auto tour of 17 historic sites. It gives a glimpse of black coal miners and railroad workers.
- Hawk Nest State Park:
It is well known for its cliffside trail. The hike takes you along the sandstone cliffs and offers a great view of New River and Hawk Nest Dam. There is also a Lover’s Leap Overlook located behind the Hawks Nest Lodge. Here, you can find the tram, which connects the lodge with New River and the Jet Boat Ride. The tram generally runs from summer to early fall.
- Cathedral Falls :
It is located just a few minutes from Hawks Nest State Park.
- The Grist Mill at Babcock State Park:
The Grist Mill at Babcock State Park is one of the most photographed sights. It offers hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. It is located 25 minutes away from the Canyon Rim visitor center.
Things to carry to New River Gorge National Park:
- Hiking poles:
They are of great use for longer hikes that are steeper on one side. They give you something to lean on as you go up the hills.
- Water bottle:
The place will be hot, and staying hydrated is quite important. Carry a water bottle that keeps your water ice cold all day long.
- Sunscreen:
You will hike and always be outside, so you will want sunscreen. The sunscreen will prevent your face from getting tanned.
- Hat: The hat will keep the sun out of your eyes.
- Sunglasses
- Light Jacket: The climate stays for a long time, but the weather changes from hour to hour. As prevention is better than cure, it is better to Carry a rain jacket.
- Headlamp
