Explore the New River Gorge National Park
The newest addition to the United States’ national parks is the stunning New River Gorge, which gracefully carves through the scenic Appalachian Mountains in southern West Virginia. The National Park Service has managed the river and its breathtaking surroundings since 1978. However, the recent elevation of its status to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve aims to attract more visitors to this outdoor paradise.
Overview of New River Gorge
The New River Gorge holds the distinction of being the country’s 63rd national park, officially designated as part of the pandemic relief package in late 2020. Despite its name, the New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world. This landscape serves as a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering exhilarating experiences such as:
- White-water rafting on challenging Class V rapids
- Scenic hikes along the canyon’s rim
- Rock climbing at various skill levels
- Mountain biking on established trails
As US Senator Joe Manchin stated, “The New River Gorge is truly one of West Virginia’s most treasured playgrounds and largest tourist attractions, thanks to its white-water rafting, hunting, fishing, outdoor sports, and natural beauty.” This designation is expected to enhance its international profile by showcasing the remarkable beauty and resources of West Virginia.
Attractions of New River Gorge National Park
The New River Gorge is divided into two distinct sections. The first section encompasses 7,021 acres designated as the park, featuring:
- Thrilling white-water rapids
- Trails for hiking and mountain biking
- Exceptional rock climbing spots
- Picturesque waterfalls
- A preserved former coal-mining town
- The magnificent New River Gorge Bridge, the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere and the third-highest bridge in the United States
Meanwhile, the separate 65,165 acres of the area is designated as a national preserve, allowing activities such as hunting and fishing.
The Future of New River Gorge Tourism
The national park designation for the New River Gorge has been in the works for a couple of years. Consequently, state tourism officials anticipate a 20% increase in visitors, mirroring the growth experienced by other national parks like Indiana Dunes National Park, which transitioned from a national lakeshore to a national park in February 2019.
