Scenic Drives in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

Scenic Drives in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is one of the most stunning natural wonders of West Virginia. This park is known for its rugged terrain, dramatic vistas, and scenic drives that wind through the gorge. If you’re looking to explore the park’s beauty from the comfort of your car, there are plenty of scenic drives to choose from. Here are some of the best scenic drives to take in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Fayette Station Road

This road takes you through the historic town of Fayetteville and past the famous New River Gorge Bridge. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the river and the surrounding mountains.

Grandview Road

This road provides stunning panoramic views of the New River Gorge and the distant mountains. It’s a great place to stop and take in the beauty of the park.

Glade Creek Road

This road takes you through the heart of the park and offers a chance to see the park’s wildlife and stunning fall foliage. Along the way, you’ll pass through forests and along streams.

Thurmond-Minden Road

This road takes you through the historic town of Thurmond and offers stunning views of the New River Gorge. The road winds through forests and along the river, and is a great place to stop and take photos.

Highland Scenic Highway

This road is one of the most beautiful drives in West Virginia. It takes you through the Monongahela National Forest and offers stunning views of the mountains and the forest. Along the way, you’ll pass by waterfalls and other natural wonders.

Coal Heritage Trail

This trail takes you through the heart of West Virginia’s coal mining history. Along the way, you’ll see old coal mines, coal camps, and other historic sites. The trail also offers stunning views of the New River Gorge.

Bridge Day Loop

This loop takes you around the New River Gorge Bridge and offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great place to stop and take photos of the bridge and the gorge.

When taking scenic drives in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, it’s important to be prepared. Make sure you have plenty of gas and food, and bring a map or GPS device. You should also be prepared for changing weather conditions and sudden road closures. The best time to take a scenic drive in the park is in the fall, when the leaves change colors and the weather is cool and crisp.

In addition to scenic drives, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. You can go hiking, fishing, camping, and rock climbing. You can also take a guided tour of the park or attend a ranger-led program. Whatever your interests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful national park. So come and explore the beauty of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve today!