Photography in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Photography in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, located in the Appalachian Mountains of southern West Virginia, is a stunning natural wonder that offers endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer, you will find a wide range of subjects to capture in this scenic park. From the soaring cliffs and dense forests to the rolling hills and sparkling rivers, there is no shortage of beautiful landscapes to explore.

Here are some tips and ideas for what to do in photography in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve:

Capture the iconic bridge

The New River Gorge Bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the park, and it provides a fantastic subject for photography. The bridge spans 3,030 feet across the New River and stands 876 feet above the water. You can take pictures of the bridge from various angles, including from underneath it or from the overlooks along the rim of the gorge.

Take a hike

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has over 100 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Hiking provides an excellent opportunity to capture the park’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and flora. You can take pictures of the wildflowers, ferns, and trees that line the trails, or you can hike to the park’s numerous overlooks for stunning panoramic shots.

Explore the rivers

The New River and the Gauley River are two of the most popular rivers in the park, and they offer excellent opportunities for water photography. You can take pictures of the rapids, waterfalls, and rock formations that line the riverbanks. You can also rent a kayak or a canoe and paddle down the rivers while taking pictures of the scenery and wildlife.

Visit the ghost town

Thurmond is a ghost town located in the park, and it provides a unique subject for photography. The town was once a bustling center for the coal mining industry, but it was abandoned in the mid-20th century. You can take pictures of the dilapidated buildings, the old railroad tracks, and the rusted machinery that still remains.

Photograph the wildlife

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, foxes, and bald eagles. You can take pictures of the animals from a safe distance while hiking or driving through the park. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to capture some rare shots of the park’s more elusive residents, such as bobcats or coyotes.

When photographing in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, it’s essential to follow some basic photography tips. For example, you should use a tripod to stabilize your camera and prevent blur in your shots. You should also experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture unique shots.

In conclusion, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a fantastic destination for photography enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and historical landmarks, there are endless opportunities for taking stunning photographs. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you’re sure to find something to capture in this beautiful park.