Technically, it’s called the New River Gorge National River. It’s managed by the National Park Service, so you’ll see and talk to park rangers here. That’s helpful, because there are over 70,000 acres to explore. Within the park, lots of adventure awaits in the form of whitewater rafting, rock climbing, mountain biking, history, hiking and plenty more.
The history of the gorge, more than anything else, is tied to the coal and timber booms of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, which lined the gorge with first rails and then towns. Most towns are gone now, but their history still remains in the people of this region. Stop into one of the many museums in the area, and get a sense of what life in an old coal town was like, back during the boom years. The stories are very real and uniquely American.
Must See SpotsThere’s no shortage of things to see and do around the New River Gorge. But there are a few you’ll definitely want to put on your must-see list. It starts, of course, with the New River Gorge Bridge; there’s a museum, a slide show, and two overlooks at the National Park Service’s Canyon Rim Visitor Center. Then, a trip to Grandview is worth every second. You’ll see amazing views, climb through some cliff tunnels, and enjoy the greatest stand of rhododendrons in the mountains. Finally, make sure you see Sandstone Falls, and check out the park’s new nature center while you’re there.
Places NearbyJust south of the gorge, the city of Beckley serves as the area’s major transportation crossroads. Check out the exhibition coal mine there, as well as the world-class ATV trail systems in the surrounding area. To the north is the Gauley River National Recreation Area, home to some of the wildest whitewater in the world. The fall rafting season is the big event on the Gauley, but local outfitters will take you there for some paddling thrills all year long
Situated in the wilds of West Virginia, The Summit Bechtel Reserve is a training, Scouting, and adventure center for the millions of youth and adults involved in Scouting America and anyone who loves the outdoors. The Summit Bechtel Reserve is also home to the National Scout Jamboree and the Paul R. Christen National High Adventure Base.
The mission of Scouting America is to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.
