A Spring Break Itinerary – New River Gorge Style

Say goodbye to the winter blues and welcome the blossoming beauty of a new season in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve with a spring break getaway. Whether you’re seeking heart-pumping adventures or simply want to soak in the natural scenery, the New River Gorge has it all. Here are our can’t-miss spring activities that you need to add to your itinerary. 

Raft The Rapids 

Find spring fun on the New River, where the rushing rapids are at their most thrilling. With the season’s rain bringing an exhilarating challenge for both novice and experienced rafters, it’s the perfect time to take on the rapids and make memories to last a lifetime. The New River Gorge is renowned for its world-class whitewater, offering a variety of rapids ranging from Class I to Class V. Whether you prefer a leisurely float or a pulse-pounding adventure, there’s a stretch of river for you. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Gorge, with its towering cliffs, lush forests and abundant wildlife. Rafting during this time of year also comes with some added benefits. As it is still early in the season, there are usually fewer people on the river, and local outfitters are offering great deals.

Explore The 63rd National Park

Every path in our national park leads to something incredible. From the sandstone cliffs to the serene forested trails, there’s no shortage of outdoor excitement waiting to be discovered. With ideal springtime temperatures and endless recreational opportunities to choose from, your spring break getaway is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Before starting your outdoor excursion, visit the town of Fayetteville (WV Living’s Best of West Virginia 2022 – Best Adventure Town). Home to many outdoor gear shops, local outfitters and vibrant culture, exploring Fayetteville is a great start to your day of adventuring. 

Choose Your Adventure

Experience the thrill of a lifetime as you scale new heights and take in awe-inspiring views of the 63rd National Park on a guided rock climbing excursion. With the New River Gorge region offering some of the most diverse and highest quality climbing areas in the east, it’s a rock climber’s paradise. The area has every type of climbing, including trad, sport and bouldering. And for those who prefer to explore the outdoors on two wheels, mountain biking is the way to go. From wide, paved rail trails perfect for a family outing to challenging singletracks that wind through the forest, the New River Gorge has options for every level of biker.

To enjoy all that the New River Gorge has to offer, visit ACE Adventure Resort (WV Living’s Best of West Virginia 2022 – Best Place For Outdoor Adventure). The resort features an extensive list of activities including, whitewater rafting, a waterpark, ziplining, kayak touring, climbing and rappelling, paintball and more. 

Take The Scenic Route

Spring in the New River Gorge is a hiker’s dream, where bright green vistas, cascading waterfalls, and an explosion of colorful wildflowers await. As the weather warms up, the trails come to life with blooming dogwoods, trilliums and Dutchman’s breeches, painting the landscape in vibrant hues. Hike along the picturesque trails to catch a glimpse of the breathtaking waterfalls, as the melting snows and spring rains create powerful cascades. With the temperatures just right, and the scenery at its finest, springtime hiking in the New River Gorge is a wonderful activity.

Learn more about the world-class ecosystem in our backyard! After taking in the wildflowers in our park, dive deeper into the diverse variety of trees and plant species scattered throughout our forests. With a 1,000-foot elevation difference between the river bottom and adjacent plateau in the Gorge, you’ll encounter many different habitats. Take an afternoon to forage for some flavorful favorites growing in the wild, such as Appalachian delicacies like ramps and morels, and sweet fruits like wineberries and persimmons.

Savor All The Flavors

Grab dinner at Pies & Pints (WV Living’s Best of West Virginia 2022 – Best Pizza), a local gem that has gained nationwide recognition. This beloved restaurant originated right here in the New River Gorge and has an assorted selection of pizzas that fuse classic and unconventional ingredients, ensuring a flavor-packed meal that satisfies any palate.

Whether you’re looking to fuel up before an adventure-packed day or wind down after an exciting excursion, our area has plenty of dining options. Browse our local restaurants, from casual cafes and classic favorites to sweet stops and breweries. 

Find A Place To Stay

Take advantage of unique cabin stays and scenic campsites during the spring. Sleep under the stars at one of our beautiful campgrounds. From luxurious RV sites with top-notch amenities to rustic areas with amazing views, there is a site for every camper. Best of all, many of our campgrounds are conveniently located near all the action-packed activities the area has to offer! 

For a truly special camping trip, check out the Tentrr campsites at Hawks Nest State Park. These cozy campsites come equipped with a pre-set canvas tent on a wooden deck platform, making it easy to get in touch with nature without sacrificing comfort.

If sleeping on the ground isn’t your thing, why not spend the night in a treehouse cabin? The Holly Rock Tree House at Country Roads Cabins (WV Living’s Best of West Virginia 2022 – Best Vacation Rental) offers a one-of-a-kind stay, allowing you to sleep among the trees while still enjoying all the amenities of a cozy cabin.

Start planning your spring break getaway now by viewing our digital travel guide, filled with everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.