New River Gorge National Park: Three Must Do Activities
Currently considered America’s newest National Park, New River Gorge National Park & Preserve located in West Virginia is ripe with beauty, history and recreation. Abandoned mill towns seemingly left standing still in time, hiking trails that trek the ancient New River and Allegheny Mountains; there’s plenty to do when exploring this 70,000-acre park and here are three activities that you must make sure are on your New River Gorge Itinerary.Drive Fayette Station Road
Waterfall off of the Fayette Station Road.
This 8 mile, 100 year old scenic road was once used as the main route in order to cross from once side of the New River to the other. Once what is now the famous New River Bridge was constructed, the road had no further use in everyday travel. Now it serves as beautiful driving tour, traversing through sharp curves and across a narrow bridge. It offers up beautiful landscape viewings of the Allegheny Mountain Range, spectacular views of the New River Bridge and even a few waterfalls along the way.2. Explore the Thurmond Historic District
Thurmond Ghost Town in West Virginia.
Once a thriving coal mining town, Thurmond, West Virginia now sits with abandoned storefronts and hollow shells of a once thriving community. What makes this little piece of New River Gorge history so interesting, is that at one point, Thurmond’s banks were said to be the richest in the state and now the town is the least populated in the state with a total of three residents. If you are looking for a Ghost Town without the spooky vibes, this is the perfect place to explore.3. Walk the Canyon Rim Boardwalk
View from the second overlook on the Canyon Rim Boardwalk.
This short leisurely stroll takes you to two different overlooks of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. The first is reached by an easily walked accessible path, and then next is about 178 steps further down. These overlooks are the source for some of the most famous views in the park, as the bridge rises over the New River and its full structure can be seen and truly appreciated.There are many more activities at New River Gorge that make it the perfect destination for adrenaline junkies, outdoor lovers and history buffs alike. I hope this short list gets you inspired to plan an adventure to West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.