How To Spend A Holiday Weekend in the New River Gorge

The small towns throughout the New River Gorge transform into a winter wonderland during the holidays. Outdoor adventures, local businesses spreading cheer and annual events fill the season with festive energy. Here’s how to spend a holiday weekend in the New River Gorge.

Step 1: Find Your Cozy Lodging

Your winter getaway starts with choosing a cozy place to stay. In the Gorge, options range from rustic cabins and vacation rentals to hotels and inns. Many properties offer amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces and high-speed WiFi, so you can warm up after a chilly adventure or stay connected as needed.

You’ll also find plenty of scenic views right outside your door, with winter landscapes that make even a quiet morning memorable. Many lodging partners offer seasonal discounts this time of year, so it’s worth calling ahead to ask about specials. 

Step 2: Get Outside

The New River Gorge is an all-season destination, and winter brings its own kind of excitement. Bundle up and explore the outdoors!

Hit The Trails

Snow turns the Gorge’s trails into a peaceful winter scene. Start at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and follow the boardwalk to the upper and lower overlooks for iconic views of the New River Gorge Bridge. If the roads are clear, take the eight-mile Fayette Station Road for a scenic trip to the bottom of the Gorge, where you can access trails and enjoy another amazing view of the Bridge from directly below.

Babcock State Park is especially beautiful this time of year. Wander through snow-covered forests and around the frozen lake before capturing a photo of the frosted Glade Creek Grist Mill. For a quick and family-friendly option, the Park Loop Trail in Fayetteville offers an easy one-mile trek. Other kid-friendly routes like the White Oak Rail Trail and several New River Gorge National Park and Preserve trails round out your winter hiking options. 

Try An Adventurous Winter Activity

If you’re craving something more adventurous, try out ziplining! ACE Adventure Resort, Adventures on the Gorge and River Expeditions all offer aerial adventures through the winter, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the icy canopy.

Bridge Walk is another year-round favorite. Protected from the weather, the catwalk beneath the New River Gorge Bridge features panoramic views of the frozen landscape during a three-hour, 3,030-foot-long tour.

Step 3: Shop Local

Before enjoying the season’s festivities, check off your holiday shopping list at local businesses in the Gorge. Discover West Virginia–inspired artwork, handmade jewelry, antiques, outdoor gear, clothing and unique gifts at our boutiques and galleries.

Want to really surprise someone? Gift an adventure! Whitewater rafting, mountain biking, aerial trips and rock climbing gift certificates make the perfect presents for the thrill-seekers in your life.

If you’re unsure what to choose, the Love Local Fayette County eGift Card is a convenient option and can be used at many area businesses.

Step 4: Warm Up With Dining

After braving the cold or shopping your way through town, warm up at one of the New River Gorge’s local restaurants. From cozy cafes to well-known chains, the flavors here make the region feel festive all season long.

Start with a seasonal espresso drink to bring in the holiday cheer, then grab a bite to eat. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, an Instagram-worthy brunch, a quick lunch or a special date-night dinner, you’ll find plenty of delicious options to choose from.

Step 5: Attend Holiday Events

The New River Gorge stays lively all December long with family-friendly celebrations and holiday traditions.

Fayetteville’s Gingerbread Festival (December 5–7) features a craft show, holiday art sampler, parade, gingerbread decorating contest and more. Plus, enjoy breakfast with Santa at Cathedral Cafe, Saint Peter and Paul Catholic School, MandaBees or The Gaines Estate. On December 6, spend Christmas at the Farm, complete with a holiday market, food and a Christmas story reading.

Join Active Southern West Virginia for the Ugly Sweater Fun Run/Walk on December 7 at Fayette County Park. While you’re there, take in the park’s Holiday Light Display, open nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. 

Browse your favorite stores after work and complete a punch card to win local prizes during Fayetteville’s Holiday Shop and Stroll on December 12. Then, head to ACE Adventure Resort’s Holiday Craft Fair and Christmas Jam on December 13.

Throughout the month, enjoy the festive atmosphere at Southside Junction Tap House’s Christmas-themed Pop-Up Bar or stop by the North Pole Pop-Up at Freefolk Brewery on December 18. 

Bundle up for local Christmas parades in Montgomery (December 5), Fayetteville (December 6), Oak Hill (December 11) and Ansted (December 13). 

Plan Your Holiday Getaway

Make your holiday season special with a trip to the New River Gorge! Request a free travel guide to start planning your getaway.