About this city
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve protects over 70,000 acres of a deep canyon carved by one of the oldest rivers on the North American continent. Located in southern West Virginia, the park is globally renowned for its towering sandstone cliffs, rich Appalachian coal mining ruins hidden in dense forests, and its world-class whitewater rapids. Officially redesignated as a national park in 2020, it stands out as a world-class epicenter for technical rock climbing, rafting, and wilderness trekking.
Location & Administrative
County
Fayette
Time Zone
EST
State Code
WV
Transportation & Accessibility
Nearest Airports
CRWBKW
Rail Systems
Amtrak (Intercity Rail)
Train Stations
Thurmond StationPrince Station
Getting Around
Car Required
Weather & Timing
Best Months
MayJunJulAugSepOct
Average Temperature
Peak Season
Hiking SeasonWhitewater Rafting Season
Off Season
Deep Freeze Season
Economics & Local Vibe
Sales Tax
6%
Key Industries
Eco-Tourism and Adventure OutfittingEnvironmental Conservation
Practical Tourism Metadata
Suggested stay: 2–4 days
Marvel at the engineering of the New River Gorge Bridge, raft the thrilling lower rapids, and walk through history at the abandoned Thurmond ghost town.
⭐
Must-See
🏗️
Architecture & Landmarks
1🌲
Parks & Nature
2⛰️
