8 Fall Adventures To Do In The New River Gorge 

September 29, 2025

Autumn in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is something special. Colorful foliage, world-class whitewater and West Virginia’s largest single-day festival all come together to create a season full of adventure. From thrilling outdoor experiences to cozy, quiet moments, here are eight things to do this fall in the New River Gorge.

1. Raft The Gauley River

While many think of fall as crisp, cool air and vibrant leaves, here in the Gorge, it also means thrilling whitewater. For seven weekends in September and October, the Gauley River roars to life with scheduled dam releases from Summersville Lake — a stretch of time known as Gauley Season.

Nicknamed the “Beast of the East,” adventure-seekers from all over the world come to conquer 25 miles of intense rapids. The river consists of two distinct sections: the Upper and Lower Gauley. 

  • Lower Gauley: Similar to the Lower New with Class III–V rapids, the Lower Gauley is challenging yet approachable.
  • Upper Gauley: A heart-pounding ride featuring the legendary Class V “Big 5” rapids — Insignificant, Pillow Rock, Lost Paddle, Iron Ring and Sweet’s Falls.
Whitewater rafting group in orange raft navigating rapids on river surrounded by autumn forest with colorful fall foliage.
Person jumping with arms raised above the New River surrounded by autumn foliage, with a bridge visible below

2. Attend West Virginia’s Largest Single-Day Festival

Catch peak fall views from the New River Gorge Bridge and watch as professionals BASE jump and rappel from its 876-foot span during Bridge Day on October 18, 2025. It’s the only day of the year pedestrians are allowed on the bridge! The renowned structure is the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere. 

Beyond the thrill of BASE jumping and rappelling, the weekend also features the Taste of Bridge Day, Active Southern West Virginia Bridge Day 5k, Bridge Day Chili Cook-Off and more. Check the official Bridge Day website for schedules, shuttles and festival details.

3. Walk The New River Gorge Bridge Catwalk

For a perspective unlike any other, book a Bridge Walk tour. This guided experience takes you across the 24-inch-wide catwalk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge, stretching the full 3,030-foot length and standing 850 feet above the New River.

Along the way, guides share stories about the Gorge and the bridge’s construction, and you’ll have plenty of time to capture panoramic photos of the autumn scenery.

4. Zip Through The Sky

If walking isn’t fast enough, try soaring through the canopy on a guided zipline trip. Feel the crisp fall air as you zip through golden treetops or test your balance on a ropes course with aerial obstacles. It’s a fun way to see the Gorge’s fiery foliage from above.

5. Climb To New Heights

The sandstone cliffs of the Gorge are spectacular year-round, but in autumn they’re especially beautiful. The region is home to some of the oldest and hardest sedimentary rock on Earth, with more than 3,000 established routes spanning 60 miles of cliffline. Whether you prefer sport climbing, traditional climbing or bouldering, there’s a route for you here. New to climbing? No worries, local guides are ready to show you the ropes.

6. Hike The Gorge

With over 100 miles of trails, hiking is one of the best ways to soak in the Gorge’s fall scenery. Choose from easy strolls, strenuous climbs or something in between:

  • Canyon Rim Boardwalk: An accessible boardwalk leading to an up-close view of the New River Gorge Bridge.
  • Burnwood Trail: An easy, peaceful walk through an old-growth forest, perfect for families with young adventurers. 
  • Long Point Trail: A route ending with one of the most iconic sights of the New River Gorge Bridge.
  • Endless Wall Trail: A moderately challenging route with multiple overlooks showcasing the Gorge and the bridge. 
  • Kaymoor Miners Trail: A steep, tough trek through remnants of an old coal town.

For the ultimate autumn photo op, head to Babcock State Park. The park’s 17 trails wind through colorful forest, but the star is the Glade Creek Grist Mill — one of the most photographed spots in West Virginia, especially when framed by foliage.

Adult and child standing on wooden bridge over rocky stream in autumn forest
Four cyclists riding mountain bikes on dirt trail through wooded area

7. Hit The Mountain Biking Trails 

Feel the crunch of leaves under your tires on the Gorge’s diverse mountain biking network. From smooth beginner loops to challenging climbs and technical descents, there’s a trail for every rider. Local outfitters provide rentals and offer guided rides to get you rolling.

8. Stay Cozy In The Gorge 

Cap off your adventure with a cozy stay in the Gorge. Choose from rustic cabins tucked into the woods, campgrounds under starry skies or convenient hotels and inns close to the action. Wherever you stay, you’ll find the perfect place to recharge for another day of fall fun.

Plan Your Trip

Peak foliage in the New River Gorge usually arrives in mid-October. Request a free travel guide today and start planning your autumn getaway.