West Virginia's New River Is Recreational Dream
Sutton to Fayetteville Area Home To Three National Treasures
Jul 29, 2009
Driving through West Virginia can produce gasps of appreciation for the mountain views and that’s just while staying on the interstates. Venturing off those ribbons of asphalt and concrete can add unforgettable memories to vacation journals especially when visiting the three rivers section.
What Are West Virginia's National Rivers?
The New River Gorge National River, Gauley River National Recreation Area and Bluestone National Scenic River are all located between Sutton and Fayetteville.
They are relatively easy to get to driving down from Pittsburgh via Interstate 79 and exiting at Sutton then heading south on Route 19. From the south, take I-77 to Beckley then follow 19 North to Fayetteville, the jumping off point for the New River. The longest arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere crosses the New River just before the entrance of the Canyon Rim Visitor Center on Route 19.
Old Is New To West Virginia River
Although called the “New” river, the name is a misnomer. In fact, the New River may be the oldest river in North America. Some estimates suggest the river has been in its present course for at least 65 million years. Scientists have also noted that the New River flows across the Appalachian Plateau, not around or from it leading to the theory that the river was there before the mountains formed.
Parks Within Parks In Southern West Virginia
It isn’t just National Parks that allow visitors great access and variety. There’s the Summersville Lake Wildlife Management Area, the Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park in the Gauley River section.
Getting To The New River Region Is Just The Beginning
Once in the parks, the fun is just beginning. Biking , fishing, hiking, paddling, rock climbing or sightseeing are just the beginning. There are numerous companies in the area who provide experts to help you with equipment and techniques for climbing in the parks boating on the rivers, especially whitewater rafting which is popular on the New River.
Safety Is Key When Visiting New River
As with any natural area, safety should be the first consideration. Roads in all the parks can be narrow and because this area is a mix of public and private property there are railroad lines throughout the parks. These lines are active and private property. The weather is varied and changeable. If you are near the water and hear thunder, seek shelter and stay away from the water.
Although there is an ongoing effort to keep the pollution down and the National Park Service monitors water quality, this watershed extends from North Carolina, through southern Virginia into West Virginia. The water is affected by mining, logging, manufacturing, agriculture and the disposal of human waste so take precautions when drinking it.
Wild Life Is Important To New River Region
There are two species of venomous snakes in the parks: copperhead and timber rattlesnake. Black bear are common park inhabitants along with raccoons, crows and deer and many species of birds.
One species, the peregrine falcon, has been absent for many years. An effort between the National Park Service and the WV Department of Natural Resources are bringing them back in a multi-year program that will allow these birds to return to nesting in the rivers. Currently there is only one known pair of nesting falcons in West Virginia.
Camping In The New River Region?
Hunting and camping are allowed in the park but be aware that the New River Gorge National River provides opportunities for primitive camping only.
Campgrounds are located near the river and have no drinking water or hookups and limited restroom facilities. These sites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. There are no fees for camping but campers are required to register with the park rangers. Stays are limited to 14 days in the same area.
Finding Civilization While Visiting New River Region?
The New River Gorge National River park does not having any lodging facilities but motels, cabins, bed & breakfasts as well as campgrounds with many amenities are located in the surrounding towns. West Virginia state parks like Hawk Nest and Pipestem have lodges while Babock, Bluestone and Pipestem also have cabins for rent. For a complete listing call, 1-800-CALLWVA or 1-800-927-0263 for listings just for the New River.
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