Heading north from here, several roads dip in and out of the park—but “the best way to see the forest and gorge is on foot or by raft,” advises Chelsea Bricker, from Adventures on the Gorge, another outfitter and resort serving park visitors. “The New River Gorge is known for its rafting, but I think the hiking is underrated,” Bricker adds.
Warm water, huge waves, dozens of rapids and dependable flows make the New River one of the best rafting destinations in the country. There are two main river sections. The Upper is more relaxed and family friendly—perfect for a first whitewater experience. The Lower is world-famous for its big, challenging rapids and epic scenery. For six weeks in September and October, on the nearby Gauley River, scheduled dam releases create some of the most challenging rafting in the country.
As far as hiking possibilities, more than 100 miles of trails weave through the park and some of the old rail lines are accessible on bikes. They range from easy to hard, forest walks to cliff-top viewpoints. Bricker’s favorite is Glade Creek, which follows a pretty stream to a beautiful waterfall.
The Gorge’s sandstone cliffs also attract climbers from around the world. There are at least 1,400 climbing routes in the region, including some of the nation’s hardest climbs.
Both ACE and Adventures on the Gorge offer guided rock climbing, along with rafting and several other trips. They both offer a range of accommodation, from camping to luxury cottages. Adrenaline seekers won’t even have to leave these properties.
Adventure on the Gorge has its own zip line system that culminates in aptly-named, 3,150-foot Adrenaline—one of the longest and fastest zip lines in North America. ACE’s property extends from the river to mountaintops, furnished with its own lake, waterpark, and a zipline tour with views of the national park.