4 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day in the New River Gorge

Earth Day is right around the corner (April 22)! We’re glancing out across the sweeping New River Gorge, and getting excited to celebrate our gorgeous scenery and adventure playgrounds!
Have you thought about your Earth Day plans? We have some ideas for you:

Play

The most exciting way to celebrate Earth Day is with an adventure, making use of all nature has to offer! The New River Gorge is a hub of outdoor activity, from thrilling rock climbing and rafting to relaxing fishing or hiking.
Did you know the zip lines that swing through our forests were constructed so they didn’t stress the trees? The innovative systems reduce the tug on the towering trunks while still providing a safe, reliable zip. Learn more about the zip system and the forest around you on a Treetops Canopy Tour.

Shop

Make a statement with your money today. When you buy, buy local, buy eco-friendly and buy organic. Think about more Earth-friendly options every time you pull out your wallet. Here in the New River Gorge, we have tons of options:

• Gifts: Shops like Cathedral Cafe carry repurposed items, like record clocks and recyclable material purses and bags.
• Gear: Get some new, Earth-minded equipment for your next adventure, then get out and enjoy the outdoors. Waterstone Outdoors has a wide selection of climbing and camping gear, including relaxing hammocks.
• Antiques: Buy something that can be reused instead of something new. Browse the booths at Fayetteville’s New River Antique Mall or check out Antiques at Aide’s in Mount Hope.

Celebrate

Of course Earth Day weekend is a big deal in the New River Gorge. (Have you seen what mother nature has given us here? We show our appreciation as much as we can!) Join in the fun and celebrate Earth Day at the Annual New River Gorge Wildflower Weekend and the New River Earth Day Celebration!
There are guided nature hikes, art shows, performances, games and chances to bring your old items and recyclables in to trade or donate. You can also learn more about sustainability and staying Earth-friendly every day with interactive booths and information, or take home local goods and crafts.

Help

Give back to your home planet for all it provides with a simple gesture of good will. Plant or donate a tree! For a $10 membership to the Arbor Day Foundation, you can get 10 free trees.
We’ll also have a weed-pulling event to tug up pesky plants in our state parks. Join the Wildflower Weekend’s garlic mustard pull and help clear up room and resources for more desirable plants.
So, how are you celebrating Earth Day?