Southern West Virginia’s National Park

Home to scenic landscapes, endless opportunity for outdoor recreation and the sweetest southern charm, the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is the epitome of adventure. Immerse yourself in one-of-a-kind experiences and heartwarming hospitality in this stunning national park and its surrounding small towns. An outdoor adventure unlike any other is just at your fingertips.
New River Gorge, winter, hiker

Here, exploring is never boring.

As winter finally settles in, the New River Gorge bestows breathtaking beauty that must be explored first-hand. Scenic overviews, scenic hiking trails and flowing waterfalls will certainly leave a lasting impression.

Amidst this retreat, you’ll also find Fayetteville, a charming small town offering the coziest of stays to complement the most thrilling adventures – making for memories to last a lifetime.

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Before your trip, get to know the New River Gorge Area with these fun facts.

  • The New River Gorge is the country’s 63rd national park. West Virginia became a state in 1863, so some say 63 is the state’s lucky number!
  • The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, some claim it to be the second oldest, aging between 10 and 360 million years old.
  • The New River Gorge bridge is the 2nd highest steel arch in the United States and the 2nd longest single arch bridge in the world! 
  • The New River is approximately 320 miles long, traveling through North Carolina, Virginia and ending in West Virginia. 
  • The New River National Park & Preserve is home to more than 70,000 acres of public lands.
  • The New River flows south to north, unlike most North American rivers.  
  • The ghost town of Thurmond was once one of the richest towns in West Virginia.
  • The Kaymoor mine, a former coal mine nestled in the bank of the New River, produced more than 16 million tons of coal during its lifetime.  
  • Bridge Day, West Virginia’s largest single-day festival where BASE jumpers leap off the bridge, is one of the largest extreme sports events in the world.
New River Gorge, winter, couple
New River Gorge, winter
New River Gorge, winter

Want to Learn More? Meet the Area’s Experts.

Visit Southern West Virginia CVB

Southern West Virginia is an expansive region home to the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. From exhilarating outdoor recreation opportunities to historic railroad towns, this area offers peak excitement and the experience of a lifetime. This corner of Almost Heaven certainly has something to offer every adventurer.

New River Gorge CVB

At the New River Gorge, exploration of all kinds is encouraged. Around every bend of the river or curve in a trail, there’s a new adventure. Explorers can take in scenic vistas from the end of a hike or reach new heights while scaling sandstone cliffs. This area also boasts unique, Appalachian-inspired flavor and a friendly atmosphere.

Fayetteville CVB

Teeming with lively restaurants, unique shops and cozy accommodations, Fayetteville offers an unforgettable basecamp for adventures in the New River Gorge. After a full day of exploration, rest easy in this charming mountain town.


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