Best of WV Living in the New River Gorge

The New River Gorge area earned several top honors in the WV Living “Best of West Virginia” awards.

It’s quite the feat for such an area. Out in the wilderness, the New River Gorge area is far from a metropolis. While relatively few of the voters probably live in the small towns of the gorge, the area still captured the most votes in several categories.

The gorge is just that memorable.

Here are our top honors, and a few of the reasons we bet they’re so loved by residents and visitors alike:

New River Gorge- Best Scenic View

Which particular view is the “best”? It’s pretty impossible to decide, because all along the New River Gorge Canyon, you can peer over the sandstone cliffs into the rushing river, and on over the rolling hills beyond.

Adventures on the Gorge- Best Outdoor Adventure Company

Across all of the scenic mountain state, there is no hub of outdoor recreation so diverse as the gorge. Adventures on the Gorge gives people access to the equipment and know-how to start into any wilderness sport. Long-known for its rafting brands, the newly partnered outfitters now offer zip lines, aerial adventure obstacle courses, rock climbing, kayaking and more. And they employ top guides to show you the ropes (or paddles, or harnesses or any gear you need to learn more about to enjoy your trip safely.)

ACE Adventures- Runner Up, Best Outdoor Adventure Company

There’s so much to do here in the gorge, we earned both mentions in this category! Another full-scale resort in the gorge, Ace Adventure Resort also offers a multitude of outdoor adventures like ziplining, whitewater rafting, rock climbing and more. It even its own lake with a ‘blob’ and other activities for families to enjoy.

Summersville Lake- Best Summer Getaway, Best Body of Water

Either of those outfitters can take you on a trip to Summersville Lake. It takes two top spots because there’s so much to enjoy. You can boat or paddleboard the waters, scale the cliffsides, or peer out over the shimmering waters from atop a lighthouse. The river even feeds the mighty Gauley, growing it into one of the Top 10 whitewater rivers in the world for just a few months each year. And all this in one of the most remote parts of the state, but near the unique charm of Summersville.

Pies & Pints- Best Pizza

The title of “pizza” is almost misleading, as adventurous as these gourmet Pies and Pints toppings get. Made with fresh blends of herbs and cheeses, your signature pie can also feature such creative additions as grapes, black beans, toasted coconut or horseradish creme fraîche.

Tamarack- Best Gift Shop

Again, the prize goes to a stop that really breaks from the traditional. At Tamarack, you don’t just buy WV-made wares, you experience them. Watch artists-in-residence work on their craft, and see just what goes into creating the stunning handiworks of the state’s top artisans. Browse heritage crafts as well as modern goods with a whole new appreciation for WV talent.

The Wild Rumpus- Runner Up, Best Local Band

Though they didn’t claim the top spot, The Wild Rumpus is certainly #1 in creating an exciting evening out. They call their wild style of bluegrass “Stompgrass,” and whether it gets you thumping along, it sure is fun to watch the crowds riled up and jigging around the stage.

We think the gorge has a lot of other “bests.” What about you?