The New River is a rugged whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons. It is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The New River Gorge National Park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along 53 miles of the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities.
We only visited the park for one day and chose to visit Grandview. From 1400 feet above the river at the Main Overlook we could see directly into the heart of New River Gorge National River, including seven miles of the New River and its watershed. It is a fantastic view. It reminded us of Horseshoe Bend on the Colorado River in Arizona, but this one is green instead of brown.
Jane was able to do it with the help of her hiking sticks.
After the overlook we hiked the Castle Rock and Grandview Rim Trails. The Castle Rock Trail is a 0.6 mile hike rated as strenuous. The strenuous rating is due to most of the 0.6 miles being boulder- hopping and climbing around the rock-strewn path. After completing the Castle Rock Trail we hiked the much easier Grandview Rim Trail back to our truck. We really enjoyed the hike: great views and amazing cliffs.
Next time we are in Charleston visiting Joe’s mom we will return to the New River Gorge National River and visit the Bridge area. We have driven over the bridge several times, but need to take the trip into the gorge and under the bridge. If you get a chance to visit the New River Gorge National River it will be worth your time.