NEW RIVER GORGE
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 72,186 ACRES

EST. 12 27 2020

WEST VIRGINIA

Planning a Trip to
New River Gorge
National Park

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located in West Virginia and is a great destination for outdoor recreation. With over 70,000 acres of stunning landscape, the park offers incredible views of the winding New River, sandstone cliffs, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, camping, rafting, fishing, and rock climbing. The park is also home to two historic sites, the Fayetteville Historic Town and the Grandview Sandstone Quarry. With its spectacular scenery and abundance of activities, New River Gorge National Park is a great destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

"The earth has music for those who listen."
-George Santayana

"The sun, with all those planets revolving around it and dependent on it, can still ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else in the universe to do."
-Galileo Galilei

"He who plants a tree, plants a hope."
-Lucy Larcom

BEST TIME TO GO

Spring (March-May): Spring is the best time to go to New River Gorge National Park. The temperatures are mild and the wildlife is abundant. Hiking and camping are great activities to enjoy in the spring. The wildflowers are in full bloom and the views are breathtaking.

Summer (June-August): Summer is an excellent time to visit New River Gorge National Park. The temperatures are warm and the park is alive with outdoor activities. Hiking, camping, kayaking, and rafting are all popular activities during the summer. Additionally, the park hosts a number of festivals and special events during the summer months.

Fall (September-November): Fall is the peak season at New River Gorge National Park. The temperatures are cool and the foliage is beautiful. Hiking, camping, and fishing are popular activities during this time. Additionally, the park offers a variety of cultural programs throughout the fall season.

Winter (December-February): Winter is a great time to visit New River Gorge National Park. The temperatures are cool and the park is peaceful. Hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing are popular winter activities. Visitors can also enjoy the park's festive winter holiday events.

The best time to visit New River Gorge National Park depends on what activities you plan to do. For camping, spring and fall offer the most moderate temperatures and fewer crowds. For whitewater rafting, the high water season from April to June and again in October are ideal. For rock climbing, summer is the best time to go as the days are longer and the temperatures are warmer. Fall is also a great time for hiking and fishing, as the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful. No matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to find something to do at New River Gorge National Park.

OVERVIEW

New River Gorge National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, boasting stunning views, thrilling activities, and ample opportunities for exploration. Located in West Virginia, the park is home to the world’s longest steel arch bridge, diverse wildlife and plants, and some of the best whitewater rafting and rock climbing in the country. Here are some of the best things to know about this incredible park: 1) It’s home to the world’s longest steel arch bridge, the 3,030-foot New River Gorge Bridge; 2) It’s a great spot for rafting and kayaking, with over 50 miles of whitewater; 3) There are over 1,000 species of plants and animals to observe; 4) Camping is allowed throughout the park; 5) There are over 100 miles of trails for hiking and biking; 6) The park is close to several other attractions, including the towns of Fayetteville and Beckley.

WEATHER

The weather at New River Gorge National Park ranges from mild to extreme, depending on the season. Summers are typically hot and humid, while winters can be quite cold and snowy. Spring and fall are generally mild and pleasant with occasional showers and thunderstorms. The park experiences an average of 60 inches of precipitation each year, including snow in the winter months. The average low temperature in the winter is around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average high temperature in the summer is around 80 degrees. No matter the season, visitors should always dress appropriately for the weather and check the forecast before heading out.

The weather at New River Gorge National Park is characterized by warm summers and cold winters. Summers can reach highs of up to 90°F with humidity levels that can be uncomfortable. Winters are cold, with temperatures dropping to an average of 20°F. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, and snowfall is common during the winter months. This weather creates a unique ecosystem at New River Gorge National Park, with lush forests and a wide variety of plant and animal species. The combination of warm summers and cold winters creates a special environment that allows for a wide variety of species to thrive.

GEAR

When visiting New River Gorge National Park, it is important to be prepared with the right gear. Here is a list of the top 10 items you should bring for your trip:
1. Hiking boots – for exploring the park’s trails and trails around the area.
2. Sunscreen – to protect from the sun’s rays in the summer months.
3. Waterproof jacket – for protection from the rain and wind.
4. Flashlight – for exploring the park’s caves and nighttime activities.
5. Camera – for capturing the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
6. Binoculars – for watching birds and other wildlife from a distance.
7. Bug spray – for protection from pesky insects.
8. First aid kit – for minor injuries or emergencies.
9. Camping supplies – for an overnight stay in the park.
10. Maps – for navigating your way around the park.
These items will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring New River Gorge National Park.

If you're planning a camping trip to New River Gorge National Park, here are the top 10 pieces of gear to get: 1) Tent – make sure it's waterproof and designed to withstand the elements; 2) Sleeping Bag – choose one that will keep you warm in temperatures as low as zero degrees; 3) Camping Stove – for cooking meals; 4) First Aid Kit – a must-have for any outdoor adventure; 5) Flashlight – for navigating the park in the dark; 6) Water Bottle – stay hydrated; 7) Matches – for lighting fires; 8) Insect Repellent – for pesky bugs; 9) Portable Toilet – for added convenience; 10) Hiking Gear – for exploring the park.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

New River Gorge National Park is located in West Virginia and is home to the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. This park was originally established in 1978 as a national river and became the 63rd national park in the United States in 2020. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife and plants, as well as many historical sites. The New River Gorge is known for its unique geology, with cliffs rising up to 1,700 feet in some places. It is also home to numerous cultural and historical sites, including the remains of a 19th century coal mining town and the site of the Battle of Blair Mountain, a 1921 labor conflict. The park offers a range of activities, from whitewater rafting and camping, to hiking and bird watching. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the gorge and its surrounding mountains.

The New River Gorge National Park is home to some of the most enchanting and legendary stories in Appalachia. One of the most famous legends is the story of the "Goblin of Grandview," a mysterious creature that lurks in the shadows near the cliffs of Grandview. Other legends tell of the mysterious disappearance of a group of settlers who ventured into the gorge in the 1800s. Other stories speak of the mysterious lights that have been seen in the park at night and of the strange sounds that have been heard in the forests. These mysterious legends are part of the allure of the New River Gorge National Park and add to its mystique.

RECOMMENDED

New River Gorge National Park is an amazing destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are the top recommendations for things to do:
1. Hike the Endless Wall Trail - this challenging trail offers spectacular views of the gorge and the New River.
2. Go whitewater rafting on the New River - experience the thrill of the rapids, and take in the majestic beauty of the gorge.
3. Take a scenic drive through the park - enjoy the stunning views of the park from the comfort of your car.
4. Climb the rocks at Endless Wall - the park offers some of the best rock climbing in the world.
5. Fish the New River - the New River offers some of the best fishing in the area.
6. Go camping - the park has multiple campgrounds, offering a variety of camping experiences.

1. Head to the Thurmond Historic District and explore the many historic buildings in the area. This off the beaten path destination is full of stories from the past and offers a great view of the New River Gorge from the nearby overlook.
2. Stop at Babcock State Park and take in the view of the Glade Creek Grist Mill. This picturesque spot is perfect for a picnic lunch and a chance to explore the park's many trails.
3. Take a boat tour down the New River and take in the beautiful scenery and wildlife. This is a great way to experience the area from a different perspective.
4. Visit Grandview State Park, where you can find some of the most stunning views of the New River Gorge. Here, you can take a hike along the rim of the gorge or even explore some of the deeper parts of the park.
5. Explore the Fayette Station Trail, which is a 4-mile loop that takes you through the forest and offers some great views of the gorge.
6. Head to Hawks Nest State Park and take a cable car ride over the gorge. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the New River Gorge from a unique angle.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

The New River Gorge National Park is a magnificent destination for avid hikers. Here are the top 10 hikes at the park that you should explore: 1) Endless Wall Trail: This 5.6 mile loop offers stunning views of the New River Gorge; 2) Kaymoor Trail: A 1.6 mile loop with a suspension bridge over the New River; 3) Long Point Trail: A 4.2 mile loop with breathtaking views of the gorge; 4) Nuttallburg Trail: A 4.8 mile loop that takes you through a historic coal mining town; 5) Arrowhead Trail: A 3 mile loop that takes you past a unique rock formation; 6) Long Creek Falls Trail: A 2.4 mile out and back trail to a beautiful waterfall; 7) Stone Cliff Trail: A 1 mile loop with stunning views of the New River Gorge; 8) Grandview Rim Trail: A 6.2 mile loop with spectacular views of the gorge; 9) Fayetteville Trail: A 7.2 mile loop with a fun suspension bridge crossing; 10) Sandstone Falls Trail: A 1.4 mile loop with the opportunity to view the falls up close.

1. Whitewater Rafting – Enjoy the thrills of the New River Gorge with a whitewater rafting adventure.
2. Rock Climbing – Climb the steep edges of the gorge and experience the beauty of the New River Gorge from up high.
3. Hiking – Explore the many trails scattered throughout the park and enjoy the stunning views of the river.
4. Zip Lining – Feel the rush of adrenaline as you soar through the sky over the New River Gorge.
5. Camping – Spend a night or two under the stars in one of the park’s many campsites.
6. Fishing – Cast a line and try to catch some of the many species of fish living in the New River Gorge.
7. Caving – Discover the underground secrets of the gorge on a guided cave tour.
8. Sightseeing – Take in the breathtaking scenery of the New River Gorge from one of the many overlooks.
9. Mountain Biking – Tackle the trails of the park on two wheels and get a different perspective of the area.
10. Kayaking – Paddle through the rapids and take in the beauty of the gorge from the river.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

New River Gorge National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers alike. Each month, thousands of visitors flock to the park to experience its stunning natural beauty. According to the National Park Service, the park has seen an average of over 200,000 visitors per month in recent years. This number is only expected to increase as more and more people become aware of the incredible beauty of the New River Gorge. The park also features a variety of activities, from hiking and camping to rock climbing and fishing, that draw tourists from all over the world. With its stunning views, rich wildlife, and variety of outdoor activities, it's easy to see why New River Gorge National Park is such a popular destination.

New River Gorge national park visitor analysis

ALL ABOUT
NEW RIVER GORGE

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ANIMALS

EXPLORE THE NATIVE

PLANTS

EXPLORE THE LOCAL

GEOLOGY

LEARN ABOUT THE

HISTORY

TOP HIKES
NEW RIVER GORGE

63 PARKS

NEW RIVER GORGE
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 72,186 ACRES

EST. 12 27 2020

WEST VIRGINIA

Planning a Trip to
New River Gorge
National Park

"The earth has music for those who listen."
-George Santayana

"The sun, with all those planets revolving around it and dependent on it, can still ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else in the universe to do."
-Galileo Galilei

"He who plants a tree, plants a hope."
-Lucy Larcom

ALL ABOUT
NEW RIVER GORGE

LEARN ABOUT THE

ANIMALS

EXPLORE THE NATIVE

PLANTS

EXPLORE THE LOCAL

GEOLOGY

LEARN ABOUT THE

HISTORY

TOP HIKES
NEW RIVER GORGE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

"ONE CAN'T SEEK THE THRILL WITHOUT THE JOURNEY." - MARK TWAIN

TWITTER

YOUTUBE

63 PARKS

NEW RIVER GORGE NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 72,186 ACRES

EST. 12 27 2020

WEST VIRGINIA

Planning a Trip to New River Gorge National Park

"The earth has music for those who listen." -George Santayana "The sun, with all those planets revolving around it and dependent on it, can still ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else in the universe to do." -Galileo Galilei "He who plants a tree, plants a hope." -Lucy Larcom

ALL ABOUT NEW RIVER GORGE

LEARN ABOUT THE

ANIMALS

EXPLORE THE NATIVE

PLANTS

EXPLORE THE LOCAL

GEOLOGY

LEARN ABOUT THE

HISTORY

TOP HIKES NEW RIVER GORGE

INSTAGRAM

FACEBOOK

"ONE CAN'T SEEK THE THRILL WITHOUT THE JOURNEY." - MARK TWAIN

TWITTER

YOUTUBE

NEW RIVER GORGE
NATIONAL PARK

Planning a Trip to
New River Gorge
National Park

"The earth has music for those who listen."
-George Santayana

"The sun, with all those planets revolving around it and dependent on it, can still ripen a bunch of grapes as if it had nothing else in the universe to do."
-Galileo Galilei

"He who plants a tree, plants a hope."
-Lucy Larcom

ALL ABOUT
NEW RIVER GORGE

TOP HIKES
NEW RIVER GORGE