New River Park
Experience the thrill of BASE jumping at Bridge Day or explore the stunning vistas of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the epic BASE jumping spectacle.
New River Park
Best Time
Witness the epic BASE jumping spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the thrill of BASE jumping at Bridge Day or explore the stunning vistas of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve.
"A truly epic adventure awaits at the New River Gorge, from heart-pounding BASE jumps to serene hikes."
🚗 GPS Can Be Tricky
Don't rely solely on GPS; park areas are spread out. Plan specific destinations and routes beforehand.
🎟️ Bridge Day Tickets
Bridge Day is free to attend, but parking and shuttle services may have fees. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New River Gorge Bridge
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
America's third-highest bridge, offering breathtaking views and a unique BASE jumping spectacle on Bridge Day.
Bridge Walk Tour
Underneath the New River Gorge Bridge
Walk the catwalk beneath the bridge for an unforgettable, adrenaline-pumping perspective. Safety first!
Scenic Overlooks
Various points within New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
Capture stunning vistas of the gorge and the iconic bridge. Perfect for photography and soaking in the natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Day: A Spectacle of Thrills
Beyond Bridge Day: Year-Round Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 GPS Can Be Tricky
Don't rely solely on GPS; park areas are spread out. Plan specific destinations and routes beforehand.
🎟️ Bridge Day Tickets
Bridge Day is free to attend, but parking and shuttle services may have fees. Arrive early to secure a spot.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike or explore the park.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera or phone for incredible photo opportunities of the bridge and gorge.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 GPS Can Be Tricky
Don't rely solely on GPS; park areas are spread out. Plan specific destinations and routes beforehand.
🎟️ Bridge Day Tickets
Bridge Day is free to attend, but parking and shuttle services may have fees. Arrive early to secure a spot.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you plan to hike or explore the park.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera or phone for incredible photo opportunities of the bridge and gorge.
🏊 Pool Hours Vary
Check the website for current pool hours, as they can change and are often seasonal. [^review]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise New River Park for its family-friendly amenities like the pool and playground, and its cleanliness. However, some note issues with inconsistent bathroom availability and outdated website hours. The New River Gorge National Park is lauded for its breathtaking views and unique experiences like the Bridge Walk, though navigating the park can be challenging.
"It's a really neat park! There is a swimming pool and kiddie pool that I'm guessing are open in the summer only. A waterslide that looked to be in good repair - probably summertime only?
Playground structures in several different places around the park. Tennis courts, basketball courts, picnic areas.
Dog friendly onleash of course, poop bags, and random places to walk your pooch but no specific paths or trails.
It looks like during the summer there are snack shacks too.
The pool area is near a good sized building so I'm guessing there are lockers and maybe showers. The separate waterslide comes down the side of a hill. All in all, it looks like a great, well-kept park!
Now, to get a group of folks that will get together to approach the city about life a dedicated dog park."
Kathryn Tikkanen
"Please expand your hrs from dusk to dawn like most other parks. 3rd shift eorkers would greatly benefit from 'decompressing' on your nature trail. I understand you probably have an attendant working an 8 hr shift, but just have a police officer open n close the park at dusk n dawn."
Raymond Monteiro
"Slides and stuff are great. Place is clean. Not really cool having a fence line that ends with a big cliff into traffic. Also not cool that the bathrooms were closed."
Aaron M Goods
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, with major routes like US-19 and I-64 nearby. For Bridge Day, expect road closures and use designated shuttle services to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
While there isn't extensive public transport directly into the park, shuttle services are crucial during events like Bridge Day. Check local transit options for nearby towns.
GPS can be unreliable due to the park's spread-out nature. It's best to have a map and know your specific destinations.
Yes, there are hotels and lodges in nearby towns like Fayetteville and Oak Hill, offering convenient access to the park. [^seo_keyword]
During Bridge Day, direct vehicle access to the bridge is restricted. For other times, check park advisories for any road closures or access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is free. However, special events like Bridge Day may have associated costs for parking or shuttles.
New River Park's hours are typically dusk to dawn, but it's recommended to verify current hours on their official website, especially for pool facilities. [^review]
Yes, Bridge Day itself is free to attend. Spectators can enjoy the BASE jumping and rappelling events without an admission fee.
The New River Gorge National Park & Preserve does not charge an entrance fee, making it accessible for all visitors. [^seo_keyword]
Tickets are not required for Bridge Day. However, if you plan to participate in guided tours like the Bridge Walk, booking in advance is highly recommended due to demand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
New River Park offers a playground, public outdoor pool with a waterslide, walking trails, and reservable picnic shelters. It's also dog-friendly on a leash. [^review]
The Bridge Walk is a guided tour that takes you along the catwalk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge, offering unique views and a thrilling experience. 
Yes, the park has numerous hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging routes, offering diverse perspectives of the gorge.
While the New River is famous for whitewater rafting, swimming directly in the river may be restricted or unsafe in certain areas due to currents. The park's public pool is a safer option. [^review]
Popular viewpoints include the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, Grandview State Park, and various pull-offs along Fayette Station Road.
📸 📸 Photography
The Canyon Rim Visitor Center offers iconic views of the bridge. For unique angles, consider the Bridge Walk or trails that lead to different vantage points.
During Bridge Day, photography is popular, but be mindful of crowds. At other times, pedestrian access to the bridge top may be limited.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the gorge, while a telephoto lens can be useful for details or wildlife. Tripods are helpful for low-light conditions.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drone operation. [^seo_keyword]
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the gorge. Midday can be harsh, but the bridge itself is impressive at any time.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting the national park, focus on accessible trails like the Canyon Rim Boardwalk for stunning views without strenuous hiking. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and check for any ranger-led programs that might engage younger visitors. Remember that GPS can be unreliable, so plan your routes in advance.
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
For a truly immersive experience, consider guided tours like the Bridge Walk for a unique perspective on the gorge's scale. Pack appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, water, and navigation tools, as some trails can be challenging. Always check the park's official website for trail conditions and safety advisories.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Experiment with different times of day for dramatic lighting, especially during sunrise and sunset. Consider drone photography for sweeping aerial views, but be sure to check and adhere to all FAA and National Park Service regulations.
[^seo_keyword] For those capturing the thrill of Bridge Day, wide-angle lenses are ideal for the expansive action shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing Bridge Day
Due to the massive turnout, expect significant traffic and parking challenges. The park strongly advises using shuttle services from designated parking areas. It's a vibrant atmosphere with vendors, food, and a palpable sense of adventure. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for crowds.
While Bridge Day is the star, the surrounding national park offers incredible natural beauty. Visitors can explore hiking trails, enjoy scenic overlooks, and learn about the area's rich industrial history. It's a full experience that combines thrilling human feats with stunning natural landscapes.
The Thrill of the Bridge Walk
+1Safety is paramount, and all participants are securely harnessed. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the bridge's history and the surrounding gorge. It's an activity that appeals to adventurers and those seeking a truly memorable experience. Booking in advance is essential, as tours fill up quickly.
This is a fantastic alternative for those who want to experience the bridge up close without the intense crowds of Bridge Day. It offers a more intimate encounter with one of West Virginia's most iconic landmarks, making it a must-do for many visitors to the New River Gorge.
Exploring New River Park
While it doesn't boast the same dramatic vistas as the national park, New River Park offers pleasant walking paths and amenities for a leisurely day out. It's a great spot for locals and visitors looking for recreational activities like tennis and basketball. The presence of snack shacks during summer adds to its appeal as a convenient destination. [^review]
Some visitors have noted that the park's hours could be extended, particularly for the nature trails, to accommodate those working non-traditional shifts. Additionally, ensuring bathroom facilities are consistently open would enhance the visitor experience. Despite these minor points, it's generally regarded as a clean and well-kept community park. [^review]
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