New River Gorge National Park & Preserve — Attraction in Thurmond

The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a breathtaking testament to the raw power of nature. This stunning West Virginia landscape, carved by the eons of the New River, offers an unparalleled outdoor experience.

Once a bustling industrial hub, the area transformed into a national park in 2020, preserving its rich history while protecting its natural beauty. The park's designation was a long-awaited recognition of the region's significance, which has been cherished by locals for generations.

The New River Gorge Bridge, a marvel of engineering, is the park's iconic centerpiece. This steel arch bridge, spanning 876 feet across the gorge, offers a thrilling perspective of the river below. To truly appreciate its grandeur, embark on the Bridge Walk, a guided tour that takes you onto the bridge's catwalk for an unforgettable experience. The cost of the Bridge Walk varies by season and age, so be sure to check the official park website for current pricing.

For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Endless Wall Trail offers a stunning view of the bridge and gorge. This relatively easy hike is dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the park with your furry companion.

The park's visitor center is a great starting point for your adventure. Informative exhibits delve into the region's geology, history, and ecology. Ranger-led programs offer a deeper understanding of the park's natural and cultural resources.

Beyond hiking and sightseeing, the New River Gorge offers a plethora of activities. Whitewater rafting, rock climbing, kayaking, and fishing are just a few of the options available. For those seeking a more relaxed pace, the park also boasts scenic drives, picnic areas, and camping opportunities.

Currently, there is no entrance fee to the park, making it an even more enticing destination. However, fees may be implemented in the future, so it's advisable to check for updates.

The New River Gorge National Park is a place where adventure and tranquility coexist. Its stunning landscapes, rich history, and diverse recreational opportunities make it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history...

Very beautiful National Park with lots of activities. There are so many cool parts of the park including the bridge area, Grandview, Thurmond, Glade Creek, and Sandstone Falls. There is rafting, climbing, biking, hiking, swimming, camping, and more. Also there is the Bridge Walk where you walk 25 feet under the bridge with spectacular views. The bridge is an engineering marvel and is really big (876 above the New River and 3,030 feet long). Stop at Canyon Rim Visitor center for information, a gift shop and 2 overlooks. The best view of the bridge is at Long Point. This trail is 3.2 miles out and back and has an amazing view of the bridge and surrounding gorge. Also Fayette Station Road has great views. It is a road the goes under the bridge and crosses the river. The main overlook at Grandview is an awesome overlook of the deepest part of the gorge at 1,400 feet deep. It is similar to horseshoe bend in Arizona but is smaller and greener. In addition there is Turkey Spur overlook which is a side view of the gorge. There is also a small visitor center near the main overlook. Thurmond is a ghost town full of history with an active railroad through it. It used to be a flourishing railroad town with lots of people working there. An old depot there is now a visitor center and has information about Thurmond. There is a walking tour showing the main part of town including a post office. Glade Creek is a a trail (and also a campground). The trail is full of swimming holes and a waterfall and a 20 foot high cliff to jump off. The swimming holes and waterfall are very close to the start of the trail. Finally, Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River and is very wide. There is boardwalk that is 0.2 miles long and has awesome views of the falls. Sandstone Visitor is a good starting point and is about 30 minutes away. The falls are really big and cool. Absolutely an awesome park. I recommend...

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is an extraordinary destination that offers a stunning array of natural landscapes and adventurous activities. Located in West Virginia, this national park is celebrated for its breathtaking views of the ancient New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, which carves through the gorge creating spectacular scenic vistas.

The park's extensive network of hiking trails appeals to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, from casual walkers to experienced hikers seeking challenging climbs. Each trail provides unique perspectives of the gorge's lush forests, rugged terrain, and the river below. The Endless Wall Trail, in particular, is highly recommended for its dramatic cliffside views.

Rock climbing is a major draw here, with the park being one of the premier climbing areas in the eastern U.S. It boasts over 1,400 established rock climbs, attracting climbers from around the world. The sandstone cliffs offer a variety of routes that cater to both beginners and advanced climbers.

For those interested in history, the park does not disappoint. The preserved sites and historical exhibits throughout the area tell the rich story of the region's coal mining past and the evolution of the local communities.

Rafting on the New River is another must-do experience. The river's whitewater sections range from moderate to extreme, providing thrilling adventures for rafters and kayakers of all skill levels.

Overall, New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is a treasure trove of natural beauty and high-energy adventure. Its combination of scenic tranquility and outdoor excitement makes it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and...