New River Gorge National Park & Preserve in West Virginia has captured the attention of travelers with its rugged landscape and storied past. Established as a national park in 2020, this area was long known for its coal mining heritage and railroad history. Today, visitors can explore remnants of old mining towns and take in views from historic train trestles, all while experiencing some of the most dramatic river and canyon scenery in the eastern United States.

At the heart of the park is the New River Gorge Bridge, an engineering marvel that spans 3,030 feet across the gorge, standing 876 feet above the water. Every October, Bridge Day transforms the site into a lively festival where thrill-seekers legally BASE jump from the bridge, a rare and exhilarating event that draws thousands of spectators. For those who prefer a steadier pace, the nearby Rim Trail offers sweeping vistas without the climb, while longer hikes such as the Endless Wall Trail weave through dense forests and cliffs carved by time.