Fall favorites in the Gorge

Think all the fun is gone now that summer is over? Think again. Autumn in the New River Gorge is deliciously exciting.
Check out these seasonal hits.

Tasty treats

Think of fall comfort food, and the words “pumpkin spice” probably come to mind. There’s plenty of that going on in the Gorge! And even if you’re not wild about that flavor combination, that’s ok. From warm cinnamon rolls to pumpkin crepes, imaginative autumn treats are here for the season.
Try favorites like:

• Kool Beanz Coffee Shop: Dreaming of pumpkin spice lattes? Get ‘em at this casual Fayetteville cafe. The friendly baristas also serve pumpkin-cream cheese parfaits (topped with crushed Oreos!) and pumpkin crepes (regular, vegan or paleo).
• Top Knot Coffee and Artisan Shop: Oak Hill’s new cafe has bold new flavors for fall. Try a caramel apple latte, paired with the owner’s popular apple cake. Other seasonal flavors include amaretto, caramel cinnamon bun and pumpkin spice.
• The Stache: Ever tried pumpkin ice cream? Get some in a cone, cup or milkshake at Fayetteville’s beloved ice-cream parlor. The changing menu sometimes features apple pie sundaes, too.
• Sweet T’s Bake Shop: A chilly, brisk fall day calls for a warm, gooey cinnamon roll. Sweet T’s in Fayetteville bakes them to perfection.
• The Station: Seasonal, farm-fresh meals are a specialty at this Fayetteville restaurant. Stop by for innovative autumn desserts and entrees, like seared duck breast with beer jam (sourced from Bridge Brew Works!) and wild rice.

Awesome autumn adventures

Fall adds an extra layer of excitement to adventures here in the Gorge. You can get in on the action, too. Here are the season’s best activities.

• Bridge Day: America’s largest BASE jumping festival comes to Fayetteville on Oct. 21. Stand on the 876-foot-high New River Gorge Bridge … and watch as BASE jumpers soar into the canyon and rappellers dangle from beneath the bridge. Entertainers and vendors add to the excitement.
• Gauley River whitewater: If you’re an experienced rafter, now is when the “Beast of the East” revs to high gear. Autumn dam releases create enormous Class V rapids— some of the world’s best. Reserve those guided trips before they’re gone!
• Lower New River whitewater: Lively Class IV rapids, coupled with mild temperatures and brilliant autumn foliage, make fall an ideal time for rafting. A guided trip down the Lower New is the perfect fall adventure for the whole family.
• Horseback riding: Explore miles of colorful mountain scenery the best way— from the saddle! The New River Gorge has many trips available, from one-hour rides to overnight expeditions. It’s a delightful way to explore those fiery forests.
• Rock climbing: Get a whole new view of autumn. The New River Gorge’s famous sandstone cliffs get you moving, crawling and conquering. And when you reach the top, voila— horizons of glowing forests are your reward. Guided trips and lessons are available.

These are our favorite fall traditions. What are yours? Let us know, and maybe we’ll write about them!