5 Things To Do This Holiday Season In The New River Gorge – A Holiday Guide

1. Cross Off Your Holiday Shopping List

Before you can kick your feet up and enjoy the festivities that this month brings, be sure to mark off all the names on your holiday shopping list! Luckily, shopping the local businesses in the New River Gorge is equally productive and fun. 

From fine art and antiques to outdoor gear and apparel, the New River Gorge is a one-stop shop for everyone on your list. Peruse through West Virginia-inspired artwork and handmade jewelry, hunt through a wonderful lineup of antiques, then browse eclectic boutiques for a stylish gift. 

Or go big this holiday season and surprise the thrill-seeker in your life with the gift of adventure! With whitewater rafting, mountain biking, aerial adventures and rock climbing — make this year one to remember with a gift certificate for their favorite outdoor activity! 

If you still can’t decide on a foolproof gift from the Gorge, buy a Love Local Fayette County eGift Card that can be used at many participating businesses in the area! 

2. Savor the Tastes of the Season

If your shopping works up an appetite, stop by one of the tasty restaurants in the New River Gorge! From charming cafes scattered across hip foodie towns to iconic chains that are around every corner, the local flavors of the New River Gorge are part of what makes our area so unique. 

Warm up with a gourmet espresso drink at one of our countless coffee shops. With seasonal flavors like peppermint mocha, gingerbread and sugar cookie, allow your tastebuds to usher in the holidays first. Whether you are in the mood for an early bird breakfast, Instagram-worthy brunch, on-the-go lunch or a date night special — there are plenty of festive fares to go around. 

3. Explore the Winter Snowscapes

The adventures in the New River Gorge are year-round! From zip-lining through the snow-covered canopy to taking in the sweeping views on a wintertime hike, discover the incredible beauty that each season brings to the Gorge.  

Wintertime transforms the Gorge into a treasure trove of unseen beauty. Beat the winter blues and head out on a snowy hike! Spend a day exploring the snow-covered forest and dozens of frozen creeks at Babcock State Park. End your day at Babcock with a photo of the frosted Glade Creek Grist Mill. For a short trek that is easily accessible, hike the Park Loop Trail. The loop is just over a mile long and begins at the Town Park in Fayetteville and includes a connection to the Fayetteville Trail. For more family-friendly hiking options, check out the White Oak Rail Trail or easy trails located in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Looking for a winter waterfall tour? Check out our favorite frozen cascades! 

Want a more adventurous activity? Soar through the sky on a zipline trip. Immerse yourself in nature and get an incredible view of the icy wilderness from above! ACE Adventure Resort, Adventures on the Gorge and River Expeditions all offer aerial trips throughout the winter months. 

4. Enjoy Seasonal Events 

There’s always something going on in the New River Gorge, especially around the holidays! 

Escape the hustle and bustle of the holidays and enjoy a getaway with your family at Fayetteville’s Gingerbread Festival on December 3. The festival includes breakfast with Santa, a craft show, an art holiday sampler, a gingerbread decorating contest and more! Limber up for Active Southern West Virginia’s Winter Wonderland Fun Run/Walk on December 3 at the Fayette County Park. And of course, don’t forget about the park’s Holiday Light Display, which runs from December 1 through December 30 from 6 to 10 p.m. Find more upcoming events on our calendar. 

5. Stay Cozy 

Escape to the Gorge this winter and recharge after a day of adventure at one of our cozy and convenient accommodations.

From charming cabins and vacation rentals to hotels and bed-and-breakfasts, our lodging options range from rustic to luxurious and are suitable for groups of all sizes. All the accommodations in the Gorge come with a wide range of amenities. From hot tubs and fireplaces that keep you warm on chilly nights to high-speed WiFi to keep you connected, find all the luxuries you may need here. Plus, take in the beauty of winter and enjoy all the comforts of home while staying in the Gorge. Many lodging partners are even running discounted rates or specials so be sure to call and ask about seasonal deals. Find the perfect lodging for your upcoming trip! 

Make this holiday season one to remember with a winter getaway to the New River Gorge. Request a free travel guide to start planning your trip.