Family Activities in the New River Gorge

The New River Gorge is famous for its whitewater rafting, but it is also home to some of the best hiking trails in the Appalachian Mountains.

With dramatic canyon views, forested ridges, and historic mining sites, hiking in the New River Gorge offers a unique way to explore the region.

Endless Wall Trail

The Endless Wall Trail is often considered the most scenic hike in the park.

This relatively moderate trail winds through lush forest before opening to incredible cliffside views overlooking the New River.

Diamond Point, a famous viewpoint along the trail, offers one of the most photographed landscapes in West Virginia.

Long Point Trail

Long Point Trail leads hikers to one of the most iconic views of the New River Gorge Bridge.

The trail is roughly three miles round trip and follows a gentle path through forest before revealing a spectacular rock outcrop overlooking the bridge.

It’s a favorite location for sunset photography.

Kaymoor Miners Trail

For hikers interested in history, the Kaymoor Miners Trail offers a glimpse into the region’s coal mining past.

The trail descends hundreds of wooden steps down the canyon wall to the remains of an old mining town.

Interpretive signs along the trail explain the lives of miners who once worked in the gorge.

Grandview Rim Trail

Located in the southern section of the park, the Grandview Rim Trail provides sweeping views of the river valley.

This trail is especially beautiful during the fall when the surrounding forests turn vibrant shades of red and orange.

Pairing Hiking with River Adventures

Many visitors combine hiking with rafting to experience the gorge from both above and below.

After exploring scenic trails, a rafting trip with West Virginia Adventures allows visitors to see the towering canyon walls from the river itself.

Together, hiking and rafting create the ultimate New River Gorge adventure.