Famous for Rafting, but There's so Much More!
Officially a “coolest small town in America,” check out some of our staff’s favorite adventures in Glen Jean to round out a perfect long weekend.
Park Loop Trail
An easy 1.1-mile mile trail beginning at Town Park in Fayetteville and connecting to Fayetteville Trail. From Court Street in Fayetteville, turn left on Fayette Avenue, and right onto Park Drive for about 0.2 miles. The trailhead is on the north-east side of the park.
Kaymoor Stairs
This strenuous 1-mile forested trail descends from the top of the gorge via switchbacks to the Kaymoor coal mine site, crossing the Kaymoor Trail. Then kick it into gear with 821 steps down to the old coal town remains at the river. Oh yeah, and then 821 steps back up. Booyah! From US 19, follow WV 16 south through Fayetteville. Turn left on Gatewood Road (see Kaymoor signs). Proceed 2 miles, turn left at Kaymoor No. 1 Road, and left at the top.
Long Point Trail
A moderate 1.6-mile forested trail that ends at an incredible outlook onto the Gorge and New River Bridge. From US 19, follow WV-16 south through Fayetteville. Turn left on Gatewood Road (note sign for Kaymoor), and continue for 1.9 miles. Turn left on Newton Road.
Trail Maps
Know where you’re going! Download a map of the hiking trails near Fayetteville and Canyon Rim.
Secret Sandwich Society
One of our favorite places to eat, owner-operated. Presidential sandwiches, burgers, salads, and more. But whatever you eat, don’t forget the loaded pimento cheese fries. Trust us on that.
Wood Iron Eatery
The best breakfasts. Period. Everything else is good too, locally sourced, organic, and dogs can sit with you out on the back deck. The AM Handheld is impossible to eat neatly – but worth the mess!
- 304-900-5557
- https://www.woodironeatery.com/
Pies & Pints
The original location, where it all started, in historic downtown Fayetteville. It’s all good, including grape gorgonzola pizza and spinach salad.
National Park Service
Great trail maps and information for hikers of all levels. And don’t forget to visit the Visitor’s Center Overlook just north of the New River Gorge Bridge!
Bridge Walk
Guided walking tours under the New River Gorge Bridge. You know, like 876 feet high, staring down from the maintenance catwalk. You do get a safety harness, whew!
Pro River Fishing
Partial and full-day trips on the New River with great smallmouth bass populations, or go for fly fishing, musky, trout and more.
Tamarack
Only 15 minutes south, this must-see center has original artisan retail, from jewelry to clothing to pottery and furniture, and more. It’s basically everything that’s great about a mall without the same old same old chain stuff. Delicious food by Greenbrier, direct from artist prices, fine art galleries, all in a family-friendly space.
Arrowhead Bike Farm
Mountain bike lessons, guided trips, bike rentals, service, and beer in the New River Gorge. Laid back staff are friendly to all levels of riders, including beginners.
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield
Part of the Civil War Discovery Trail, with a small museum, hiking, overlooks, and historical interest. A 2-day re-enactment on the original site is held in September of odd-numbered years (2017, 2019, etc.)
Summersville Lake
Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Summersville Lake is popular for boating, swimming, fishing, and camping. From US 19, go north from Fayetteville, and take Route 129 W to the dam and lake.
Babcock State Park
Over 4,000 acres including its famous grist mill, log cabins, tent camping, hiking trails, stables, and a lake for fishing and boating.
Hawks Nest
Incredible views and many birds of prey mark this 276 acre State Park in Ansted, just 15 miles away. Visit the Nature Center, go hiking, rent a bike, stay at the Lodge, take a ride on the aerial tramway or on a jet boat.