It All Begins Here

A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities — hiking, climbing, white water rafting and kayaking, boating and much more.

A scenic overlook, an aerial tram down into the gorge, and the Cliff Side Trail along the sandstone ridgeline — Hawks Nest is a worthy half-day stop, especially for the views of the New River and the dam. There's also a solid restaurant with sweeping views of the valley if you're looking for something a bit more upscale. Located on Route 60, about 20 minutes from your stay.

Nicknamed the 'Little Bahamas of the East,' Summersville Lake boasts some of the clearest freshwater you'll find east of the Mississippi — visibility up to 70 feet on a good day, with an almost aqua tint to the water in direct sun. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, explore the coves and inlets, and swim at Battle Run Beach. The lake is at its best June through September.

The New River is one of the premier whitewater destinations in the country, with something for everyone — the Upper New offers a more mellow Class I–III experience perfect for families and first-timers, while the Lower New ramps up to Class IV–V. The Gauley River in September and October, during controlled dam releases from Summersville Lake, is world-class whitewater.

The New River Gorge Bridge is the second-longest single arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, and the Canyon Rim Visitor Center offers the best overview of its scale. The short boardwalk trail down to the overlook decks is worth every step — bring a camera. The Visitor Center itself has excellent exhibits on the park's natural and mining history.

One of the most popular non-hiking activities in the area, and for good reason — ACE's zip line canopy tour sends you through the forest canopy with stunning gorge views throughout. Great for all fitness levels and a fun option if you have non-hikers in the group.

Yes, scuba diving — in West Virginia. The lake's incredible clarity and depth (up to 327 feet) make it one of the best freshwater dive sites on the East Coast, with cliffs, boulders, overhangs, and underwater rock formations to explore. Sarge's Dive Shop runs certifications, charters, and rentals from mid-May through mid-September.

Before the bridge existed, this 8-mile road was the only way across the gorge — and driving it today is still one of the best ways to feel the full scale of the place. The road descends from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center all the way to the river, crosses a narrow historic bridge, and climbs back up the other side. Take it slow, pull over often, and do it around golden hour if you can.

Rafting, zip lining, ropes courses and more. If you're looking for a day of curated adventure, this is a good place to start. Located just off the gorge you'll find easy access to much of what the New offers through their grounds.

Sandstone Falls spans 1,500 feet across the New River — the widest waterfall in West Virginia — and the accessible boardwalk makes it one of the few hikes in the park that's genuinely easy for all ages and abilities. The island loop trail adds a little more distance and rewards you with the full breadth of the falls from mid-river. A great choice with kids or for an easy evening walk.

Short but punishing, this trail descends 800+ wooden steps into the gorge to reach the preserved ruins of the Kaymoor coal mining complex. The history embedded in this place — the inclined railway relics, the mining structures — gives the hike a weight that stays with you. Budget 2–3 hours and know you'll earn every step back up.

The classic Gorge hike, and for good reason. A relatively gentle walk through deciduous forest brings you to a sandstone rock outcropping nearly 1,000 feet above the New River, with an unobstructed view of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Pack a lunch and linger — the sunrise and sunset lighting here is exceptional.

The climbers' trail to the Coliseum and Orange Oswald walls at Summersville Lake is accessed from the parking lot behind temporary headquarters at Summersville State Park. A ~5-minute trail starts near the restrooms, leads down metal stairs, and passes through the forest to these popular, south-facing sport climbing areas. Worth checking out just to see the Coliseum. Also a great spot to go for a dip on those hotter days.

Very good Mexican food. Large beers. Fast service. A surprising find in downtown Summersville and a short 5 minute drive from the property.

Two YouTube chefs collaborate for a memorable experience. Hibachi, Sushi, and Japanese Steak are all served up with zest.

A bar-and-grill menu with everything you'd expect — burgers, wings, nachos, fried pickles, potato skins, quesadillas, alongside some more specialty dishes. Try the Ribeye! Though it appears a hole-in-the-wall from the street it opens up inside and has a spacious rear deck.

American food and drink ranging from burgers to hot dogs alongside a few vegetarian options, plus beer, wine and cocktails.

No frills diner food. Gets the job done and is walkable if you're up for a jaunt down the hill.

An old standby — it was our go-to 15 years ago on our first visit to the area and remains a staple. Former church converted into an artsy, relaxed hangout for coffee and eclectic American fare.

Great breakfast sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs and pepperoni rolls alongside a lot more. A local spot beloved by the locals and those visiting.

American fare with some twists — thai noodle salad and poutine — with a large selection of craft beers located in the middle of town.

Something of an establishment in Fayetteville and the first Pies & Pints in WV — wood fired pizzas, a rotating list of craft beers, and a good experience on all fronts.

The closest thing to fine dining in the area (that we've found). We haven't been, so can't testify to the food, but reports on Google suggest it's decent and the grounds as well as the building are a fun diversion if looking for something out of the ordinary.

No list would be complete without Tudor's Biscuit World. You can't miss it on the way into town (just off the 19) and it's a perfectly fine option if you want to load up on calories and/or get a quick bite.

One of our go-to's. They have a section of pre-portioned ready-to-go food, so ideal for a day of adventure. A rotating list of beers is available and a cozy outdoor space with fire pits awaits post-adventure.

As good as views get while eating. Perched above the Gorge, this restaurant is part of the Hawk's Nest State Park building. The food is decent, the surroundings are incredible.

A short drive between Steepwood and Fayetteville — Freefolk is a craft beer outpost with a free-spirited ethos, good food, ping pong, games, a large outdoor seating area and more. Worth timing a stop on your way into or out of the Gorge. This is one of our favorite spots.

The Brew Garden is an extension of Water Stone (outdoor gear shop in Fayetteville) — stop by after sunset for a cold beer. There's a deck behind the store for kicking back and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Good vibes, a large fire pit, lots of outdoor seating and a cathedral-esque indoor/outdoor room. Lots of beers to choose from all brewed by three guys who care a lot about making good beers. Check it out.

A cute shop in downtown Summersville (walkable) with specialty coffees and unique donuts made daily. If you don't want to brew your own coffee and are up for a morning walk, this is almost straight down the hill.

Fun seasonal drinks, friendly staff, and a solid cup of coffee. It's a short 10 minute drive and on the way to many an adventure south of your stay. An easy stop if you didn't have time to grab coffee at the cabin.

Ice cream and fudge just off the highway and across the way from the NPS visitors center. If you're looking for a gift to give or a tchotchke to commemorate your visit there's a good chance you can track something down in here as well.

Family-friendly ice cream shop with a large selection of flavors and a menu of food items, plus outdoor seating. Located in Downtown Fayetteville.

Casual restaurant offering hot dogs, hoagies, ice cream, and other comfort foods. A bit out of the way, but worth it if you're looking for a classic feel and some good ice cream. Located 15 minutes west of downtown Summersville.

Soft-serve ice cream, hot dogs and burger joint with outdoor seating and friendly service right on the lake. A strong recommend, particularly on those hot days where all you want to do is be lake side. Located in Mt. Nebo right on the lake.

Fresh cuts of meat, a large selection of specialty cheeses, alongside a decent selection of additional grocery items — eggs, dairy, produce, and a good bit of candy. Located in Summersville.

A small local grocer specializing in organic, gluten-free, and all additional things healthy living. They carry essential oils, CBD oils, vitamins, and more.

Your standard issue grocery store. If you're looking for groceries, this is the closest run-of-the-mill grocery store you'll find.

The Walmart. It's exactly what it is everywhere else. They have groceries, clothing, outdoor gear, and almost everything else.

They carry a full range of outdoor gear and apparel. While their specialty has always been whitewater paddling they also offer a wide selection of outdoor and camping gear, trail running and hiking footwear, climbing gear and casual outdoor and leisure apparel.

Pinheads Bowling is located down in Oak Hill, so about a 35 minute drive, but worth it on a rainy day or off-day from other activities. It's a classic bowling alley with 12 lanes, a solid bar menu, rotating beers on tap and pitchers offered if you're looking to hang. A strong recommend.

One of the more surprising finds in downtown Fayetteville — a well-designed escape room venue with themed rooms. The themes rotate, so check the site below for the most up-to-date roster. They occasionally feature Scarebnb — an Airbnb themed escape room. If you liked Barbarian (2022) and like getting spooked, this is for you.

Discovered in 1942, Lost World Caverns drops you 120 feet below the Earth's surface into a wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites — a 45-minute self-guided tour through some serious underground geology. Located in Lewisburg, about 1 hour 20 minutes from us, but worth combining with a trip through that beautiful little downtown and the drive is beautiful.

A fair representation of the mining experiences in Appalachia — a guided underground rail tour through an actual coal mine, led by former miners who know every inch of what they're showing you. The history of this region lives here, and it's compelling. In Beckley, about 50 minutes south.