new river gorge national park visitor centernew river gorge national park visitor center

Sandstone Visitor Center hours may vary depending on season; it is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily . Parking Lot closes at 5:00pm when visitor center is open. As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. New River Gorge National Park is 53 miles long and follows the course of the New River. Visit our green design visitor center in the south end of the park. Information about reserving shelters at Grandview and about permits and commercial use authorizations for activities and events in the park. Sandstone Visitor Center is open spring, summer, and fall, and weekends only in winter. Welcome to spring in West Virginia. Full of hairpin turns and vista points, the road winds down to the bottom of the gorge, across a narrow bridge, and back up to the top. Sandstone Visitor Center and Sandstone Falls. Topographic maps of the park are also available here. " Definitely worth a stop " Aug 2021 Stay up-to-date with the latest information about closures and changes in operations due to the COVID-19 pandemic. You are only limited by the amount of time you have to spend here. (Video of young people inspecting bugs). For the hungry, worry not: Be it pickles or wings, the fried snacks are perfectly crispy, and locals swear by the burgers and (only sometimes fried) taco selection. After checking out the visitor center, step outside for the shortest, but still one of the best hikes in New River Gorge National Park - the Canyon Rim Boardwalk. Take your time and make plenty of stops to enjoy the forest, river, and views of the iconic bridge along the way. To get a good sampling of what the park has to offer, dont miss out on a sunrise hike on the Endless Wall Trail, a half-day white-water rafting trip on the New River (also known as the New), and a sunset drive on Fayette Station Road. In addition to its full-service bike shop, it also has a restaurant, the Handlebar, which serves cold beers and warm brats (vegan options available), plus a campground and a small farm with a motley crew of resident goats. 25846, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Even after 8 years of running. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. At the Canyon Rim Visitors Center, soak up breathtaking views at what many consider the most perfect overlook of the New River Gorge Bridge. Canyon Rim Visitor Center does not offer reservations through Recreation.gov. It's the season where Almost Heaven comes alive. This national park site includes 53 miles of the New River, a federally recognized Wild and Scenic River, as well as the deep gorge that surrounds it. The Visitor Center also has water and bathroom facilities. With an estimated 300,000 visitors each year, the center provides the park with a nationally recognized facility, revealing the beauty of New River Gorge to the nation and the world. Bald eagles and peregrine falcons call this park home, and youll often spot a few along your travels. Enjoy an added layer of beauty at this stop by visiting in spring, as the official state flower, the Rhododendron, begins to bloom along the gorge.Explore a wide variety ofhiking trails with adventures ranging from strenuous treks to leisurely strolls. There are moments, as you drift through the deep canyon walls of the New River Gorge, when it feels like youve got the whole world to yourself. Rafters can choose between a half-day adventure on the Lower New River (class IIIV) or Upper New River (class IIIII) or a full day that includes both parts of the river and lunch. P.O. The forest around it is home to over 1,500 different plant species, one of the most biodiverse in the Appalachian region. 25846. It is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from May through October and on weekends (Saturday and Sunday) in winter. For those looking for a convenient stay in town, Lafayette Boutique Flats in Fayetteville is an ideal option. new adventures through a one-stop shop for inspiration and ideation, trip planning, information sharing, Along the winding turns of the mountain route to Fayette Station, a special bridge view is sure to stop you in your tracks. In recent years milkweed has been planted at the site to encourage monarch butterflies to utilize the site. At 876 feet (267 m) tall, the New River Gorge Bridge is also the third-highest bridge in the US and the thirteenth-highest bridge in the whole world. Hiking trails here take you to spectacular overlooks and through remnants of old coal mining towns. This relatively flat path follows a peaceful, shady creek on what used to be a functioning railroad and ends just a few yards away from the boat launch ticket counter. Be prepared and check the local forecast before hitting the trail or heading down the river. 26 reviews Unclaimed Hiking, Rafting/Kayaking, Parks See all 242 photos Write a review Add photo ) was closed for the season (I visited in mid-March). WV She contributes to travel gear, outdoor adventure, and local getaway coverage. Flying to New River Gorge There's really only one airport within decent range of New River Gorge, and that is Charleston, West Virginia. Start your visit to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve at one of our visitor centers, where you can find maps, information, interpretive displays, and a book store. Whether you prefer a luxury retreat at a world-class resort or a rustic campsite stay under starry night skies, West Virginia has accommodations for every type of traveler. With class IIIV rapids, broken up by stretches of calm waters, the New River is excellent for anyone new to the sport. Rafting while witnessing the stunning hues of a W Summer is just beginning, which means it's not too late to plan the adventure of your dreams. In the 1970s, the area began gaining popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and was first named a protected area in 1978 when it became a national river. The Sandstone Visitor Center serves as a gateway to the southern portion of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve where visitors traveling along I-64 can stop and get oriented to the park and southern West Virginia. (Video of a rock climber). Please take a look at the area details below for more information about visiting this location. Its especially magical at sunrise, when fog and mist drift in and out the canyon. Hello Rock! As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. New River Gorge National Park is 53 miles long, generally along the banks of the New River. Refresh and refuel along the banks of the enchanted Bluestone River. The New River Gorge is popular among avid climbers, thanks to the over 1,400 established routes throughout the area. To learn more about the features that make this visitor center 60% more energy efficient than others of its size, see the Green Design Visitor Center page. It takes a couple of hours to drive the length of the park along pretty country roads. Blooming rhododendrons. Sandstone Visitor Center hours may vary depending on season; it is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily from April through October; open weekends (Saturday and Sunday) from November through March. Wildflower hikes. (Video of white water rafters). This amazing spectacle draws thousands every year, with visitors traveling from all over the world to see daredevilsleap from the edge of the bridge and plummet over 800 feet down, parachuting toward the New River. Slight_Fact 8 hr. WV Canyon Rim Visitor Center is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm year round. Rather explore the trails on two wheels instead of two feet? September 23, 2022 A First-Time Visitor's Guide to the New River Gorge National Park A visit to the U.S.'s newest national park means adrenaline-filled outdoor adventures, fall foliage, and craft beers. Primitive camping, on a first come - first serve basis, is available without charge at a number of locations within the park. Tucked away in the mountains of West Virginia, the New River Gorge has largely been an underrated travel destination. Sandstone Falls. Staying near America's newest national park, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, has never been so easy! A River Runs Through It. New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, Near Lansing, West Virginia. Yes, locals have long known about this incredible natural playgroundits been popular among white-water rafting enthusiasts for decades, and Appalachian families have lived symbiotically with the land for generations. After several adventurous stops along on your New River Gorge National Park & Preserve road trip, it is time for a peaceful retreat. Within the park boundaries, there are a handful of primitive campsites (no drinking water and limited bathroom facilities) as well as options for backcountry camping. The possibilities are endless! Native grasses and wildflowers provide habitat and food for native wildlife while helping to contribute to resource conservation by not requiring additional watering. Hours and Fees. The New River Gorge National Park is 53 miles long, following the course of the river. Your purchases help to fund vital interpretative and educational programs enjoyed by millions of visitors to America's national parks and other public trusts. While there, dont miss a sundown drink at Smokeys on the Gorge or Chettys Pub, two adjacent, on-site restaurants with striking, western-facing views of the gorge. In recent years we have observed monarchs in the garden and monarch caterpillars have built chrysalis in our milkweed plants. GPS Coordinates: 38.07003 N, 81.07583 W Program start location will vary based on topic. (Video of kayaker navigating rapids). P.O. It is located at the New River Gorge Bridge, just north of Fayetteville. Whether theres a show on or not, nab a seat at the bar and order a local West Virginia brew (such as those by nearby Bridge Brew). If you only have time for one hike, opt for the Endless Wall Trail, an easy, 2.2-mile loop that takes hikers past a dramatic view of the New River Gorge and Bridge at a vista point called Diamond Point. Copyright 2023 West Virginia Department of Tourism. Most visitors to the New River Gorge drive from nearby statesits roughly five hours from Washington, D.C., four hours from Charlotte, North Carolina, three and a half from Pittsburgh and four from Columbusor elsewhere in West Virginia. Summer is the most popular time to visit the New River Gorge, but wed recommend visiting in September or October, when the weather cools, crowds thin out a bit, and several locally loved events occur. Visitor centers at Grandview and Thurmond are seasonal, generally open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Here's what to do there! Many roads are narrow and winding. You can find all of the info on operating hours here. The sales area is managed by Eastern National, a non-profit organization that returns its proceeds back to the park. Box 246, 104 Main Street Stop by one of the park's four visitor centers to find maps, information, learning opportunities, and help planning your visit. Forecasters said the heat wave will peak on Saturday and Sunday when Ramona hits 101-102 degrees, Valley Center jumps to 97-98, Julian climbs to 96-99, Poway and Mt. Box 246, 104 Main Street 25846, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Box 246, 104 Main Street Sandstone Visitor Center is a green design building. The park is 53 miles long. Then grab a bike and hop on one of the areas mountain bike trails, like the easy and scenic Long Point Trail, feature-filled Corona Trail, or the gorge-adjacent Kaymoor Trail. Home to more than 70,000 acres of public lands, this park has been a hallowed spot for locals for centuries. Less than three hours outside Roanoke, this stretch of West Virginia is unlike anything youve ever seen before. Although youll feel like youre deep in nature while staying on this expansive, family-friendly adventure resort, the location is surprisingly central: its only a six-minute drive to Fayetteville and three minutes to the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Rest and relax at a world-class resort or head out for a waterfall hike. Recreation.gov. Places throughout the park that you won't want to miss. 11. This trail is located at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. 11 comments. The nearest airport, Yeager International Airport in Charleston, West Virginia, is a little over an hour away and has direct flights from Washington, D.C., Atlanta, Chicago, Charlotte, and Orlando. 1 / 8. Worldwide, monarch populations are declining due to habitat loss, so providing milkweed habitats is essential for the survival of the species. This overlook is located at the Canyon Rim Visitor's Center near Fayetteville. Start your visit to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve at one of our visitor centers, where you can find maps, information, interpretive displays, and a book store. If you only have one day in New River Gorge National Park, this is a great place to spend your time. Food, lodging, and full service campgrounds are plentiful in the gateway communities surrounding the park, including Hinton, Fayetteville, and Beckley. Class 5! and cultural destinations in your zip code and across the country. Other appealing hikes near Fayetteville and the Canyon Rim Visitor Center include: Before the New River Bridge was completed in 1977, Fayette Station Road was the areas main two-way road but is now a scenic drive popular among visitors. (Video of fish in the river). Exploring the West Virginia Waterfall Trail This facility is also included in "A guide to Accessible Recreation in West Virginia.". As you head back upriver you just might notice the wide cascading waters of Sandstone Falls. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve protects and preserves 53 miles of the New River as well as over 70,000 acres of the magnificent gorge that this river created. The peace and solitude of Almost Heaven is just an overnight stay away. Find out about accessible areas throughout the park. As the third most forested state, our country roads are vibrant with color and a sight to behold in the fall. Learn about the animals, plants, natural features, and ecosystems of the New River Gorge. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River from Bluestone Dam to Hawk's Nest Lake. Box 246, 104 Main Street Lafayette Flats Boutique Vacation Rentals, National Park Services advice for staying safe, 5 Tips for Redeeming AmEx Membership Rewards Points for Top Value, 11 Travel-Ready Fanny Packs That Are Actually Stylish, This Is the Best Country for Expats to Live and Work Abroad, How to Visit This Charming Colorado Mountain Town and the Distillery That Calls It Home, 7 Delightful Ways to Go Beyond the Shore in Myrtle Beach, Why Washington, D.C. Is an Especially Meaningful Place to Celebrate Pride, Discover South Carolinas Golf Paradise for Adults, Kids, and Kids at Heart, Heres How Washington, D.C. is Leading the Way in Accessible Travel, What Makes Padre Island National Seashore a Paradise for Nature Lovers, Personalize Your Dream Vacation in Myrtle Beach, 5 Ways Corpus Christi Takes Your Beach Vacation to the Next Level, Follow Your Personal Pleasure on an Epic Trip in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, An Exquisite Experience in Abu Dhabi Awaits, 5 Ways This International Hotel Brand Is Doing Its Part to Save the Ocean. For the best views of the bridge, stop by the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Read More. (Video of a fly fisherman fishing). View More Location: LAT/LONG: 38.070040, -81.075834 Meet at Canyon Rim Visitor Center. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve protects and preserves 53 miles of the New River as well as over 70,000 acres of the magnificent gorge that this river created. Tips to make your visit to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve one you will always remember. Visitors to the new facility will learn about the natural and cultural history of the New River and its watershed through interactive interpretive exhibits. Having a good map is essential. Gauley River trips are split between Upper Gauley, which runs through five class V+ rapids and a 14-foot waterfall, or the comparatively calmer Lower Gauley, which includes 13 miles of class IIIV rapids. We have some hidden gems in the park that are not well known. Many roads are narrow and winding. Learn about ways you can help support your park. Shaped by the famous New River Gorge, youll find plenty of riverside activities, outdoor adventures and some of the most extraordinary views. If you consider yourself a beginner, head out with an outfitter like Adventures on the Gorge, which runs half- and full-day climbing trips for adventures of all ages, levels, and abilities. For those venturing here for the first time, use this guide to discover what to do, where to eat and drink, and where to stay in the New River Gorge National Park. (Video of a parachutist jumping from the New River Gorge Bridge). The 9,800 square-foot facility features sustainable (green) design concepts for energy efficiency and resource conservation. Video of young person chasing lightning bugs (Video of a butterfly on a plant). Pick and choose the segments of trails you wish to complete to find your perfect path. Enjoy your visit! Closed October through May. Learn about what our resource management staff is up to through a series of short videos. Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginias Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening weekend getaway. Directions to visitor centers and other park locations. This center, located just north of the I-64 and State Route 20 interchange (Exit 139), opened in the fall of 2003. Additionally, on the third Saturday of each October, the area hosts Bridge Day, which is the one day of the year in which base jumpers are allowed to leap off the New River Bridge, drawing a crowd of jumpers and spectators alike. Remains of these coal mines and the nearby towns can still be found throughout the park. Representative local species have been planted in the native garden right outside the visitor center while the remainder of the site is maintained as a native grassland. Plan a field trip to New River Gorge, or learn about our curriculum programs and teachers resources. Add a Comment. A wild and wonderful introduction to the National Parks of Southern West Virginia. It was established as a national river in 1978. Find out what interpretive programs are going on in the park. With m Nestled in the mountains of West Virginia, you can find many beautiful, serene lakes that provide an escape into nature. Throughout the rolling hills of the Mountain State, the rumbles from classic muscle cars and exotic sports cars can be heard traversing alo What's better than whitewater rafting within the nation's newest national park? Read More. With an estimated 300,000 visitors each year, the center provides the park with a nationally recognized facility, revealing the beauty of New River Gorge to the nation and the world. If one major travel trend has emerged over the tumultuous months of the pandemic, its been the publics enormous appetite for getting outdoors. Although the majority of them are best for intermediate climbers (the difficulty grade ranges between 5.105.12), there are a few easier options ideal for beginners. We are looking for volunteers for various positions. Location & Hours Suggest an edit 104 Main St Glen Jean, WV 25846 Get directions Enjoy your visit! U.S. Route 19 is easily reached from Interstates I-64 and I-79, as well as U.S. Route 60. Fans swear by its out-of-the-box topping combinations, like Tajn, jalapeos, and corn on an elote-inspired street corn pizza or an oddly delicious grape and gorgonzola, but you cant go wrong with a classic combo either. For all your bike needsbe it rentals, tours, gear, services, or even a tasty beverage after your ridehead over to Arrowhead Bike Farm.