New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, Glen Jean

As a national park enthusiast, I realize not all national parks can be Yosemite or Yellowstone… New River George is certainly on the less grand side of things. The large highway bridge is an impressive engineering accomplishment, but a watching highway traffic from inside the national park seemed to cheapen it for me. I’m not sure who decided this deserves to be a national park, but I know of many more deserving state parks. The coolest part of this park to me was Sandstone Falls. The wooden boardwalk around Sandstone Falls was very nicely done. Would I go back, no - not unless I was driving by on my way somewhere else and needed a picnic spot. However I got my national park stamp for the collection

This was one of the best places i have been to. The bridge views are great from the river side, Long point trail and other places we can stop at. They have river rafting at the river under the bridge. The bridge view from long point trail in the morning on a foggy day was like heaven really. It was such a wonderful experience. They have nice views from the dect at the visitor center as well.

Some may not agree with the “National Park” status, but it was already a National River and Preserve. There is more to the park than just the bridge, however the bridge is a beautiful focal point. I did the Bridge Walk tour and it was amazing! We also enjoyed the Fayetteville Station Road with audio tour, Sandstone Falls/Visitors Center. White Water Rafting looked awesome, but we didn’t have time to do that on this trip. Enjoy the park for the beauty of nature and the gorge in the East and you will have a good trip.

Absolutely amazing views. It was cold and snowy but beautiful! Only had time for 1 hike. Hiked Longs Trail to see the bridge. Took our coonhound with us. He loved the walk and sniffs through the wooded path leading up to the clearing and area where you can walk out and see the entire bridge! Stunning! Not too many people on the trail and the ones we passed were awesome and friendly. Recommend this trail but the last part is narrow and full of roots and mud and downhill. May be difficult if you suffer with bad knees or hips. Definitely worth the view!

We have never been to New River Gorge and were so excited to see what kind of scenic hikes they have for us and our dogs. We found a few moderate hikes, but one that lead to a beautiful view of the bridge and rapids below! It was lovely and well worth it. We will most definitely be back. We love it here!