Celebrate Earth Day in the New River Gorge

In an outdoor playground as vast and beloved as the New river gorge, you know we’re making a big deal about Earth Day.
The rolling mountains and nature are central to our lives here, open ranges of adventure for all to enjoy. If you don’t already have grand Earth Day plans, come join us in the West Virginia hills.
There are many ways to celebrate our wide, wild environment this month:

New River Gorge Earth Day

Families can find plenty to explore at the New River Earth Day celebration (April 19), from games and an Easter egg hunt for the kids to artisan and farmer booths to browse. Bring recyclables to drop off, and old books, clothes and DVDs to swap while you listen to live local music.

WV Wildflower Weekend

Nature lovers can explore the rainbow of spring color in the New River Gorge with National Park Service guided hikes during the WV Wildflower Weekend (April 25-27). You can enjoy nature, or help beautify it with a garlic mustard pull, tearing bothersome plants from the ground to encourage more native growth.
Or, see how the spring palate inspires local artists at nature-themed art shows. Cameras will even be available for you to capture your own environmental arts in the Tamarack gallery gardens.

New River Birding and Nature Festival

Leading experts will be on hand to guide you through the forests at the New River Birding and Nature Festival (April 28- May 3). Researchers, authors & editors, gear specialists and more forerunners in the naturalist field will be leading hikes and birding adventures through the woodlands, including river boat tours and scenic overlook strolls. Learn about Appalachian ecology from the pros.

Open Adventures

If none of these suit your schedule, the Gorge is always open to adventurers! Whether you just want a simple hike with a breathtaking view, or you want to challenge world-class whitewater rapids with your paddle, you can find something adventurous to explore here.
How are you celebrating Earth Day?