It’s A Date – 10 Ways to Spend Valentine’s Day in the New River Gorge
February 9, 2022The season of love is finally here in the New River Gorge. Whether you are looking for a quiet escape or a thrilling adventure, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few date ideas that will make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.
Love Is An Adventure
For a date that is equally brisk and beautiful, soar through our snowy hemlock canopy on a zipline trip. Enjoy frosty aerial views of our forests while facing your fears with your sweetheart. Book a trip on Adventures on the Gorge’s TreeTops Zipline Canopy Tour, which features 10 ziplines, 5 swinging sky bridges, a couple of short hikes and a free-hanging rappel. Or get competitive on ACE Adventure Resort’s New River Gorge Zipline Tour. This course has dual zips so you can race your partner!
A Scenic Stroll
Don’t let the chilly temperatures ruin your day. Enjoy a breath of fresh air on one of our favorite hiking trails. From frozen waterfalls to ice-coated cliffs, the Gorge is a treasure trove of unseen beauty during this time of year. Home to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, two state parks – Babcock and Hawks Nest, and many town parks, there are plenty of trails to explore this Valentine’s Day. Prefer to travel on wheels? Rent a mountain bike from one of our outfitters and head out on an unforgettable excursion!
Wine & Dine
Enjoy a delicious dinner with an incredible view of the New River Gorge at Hawks Nest State Park’s restaurant. Join Adventures on the Gorge for a murder mystery dinner, or spend a relaxing evening at The Gaines Estate with a delicious four-course meal catered by Dobra Zupas.
Stay Cozy
There’s nothing more romantic than a cozy cabin, complete with a crackling fireplace and warm hot tub. Remote, peaceful and intimate – cabins in the New River Gorge are the perfect environment to spend some quality time with your partner. From rustic to luxurious, find the best place to spend your holiday. And luckily, around Valentine’s Day many lodging partners are running discounted rates or specials, so be sure to call and ask about seasonal deals.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Do you have a hard time buying gifts for your loved ones? Set out on a shopping trip together! The New River Gorge is home to many unique shops. From antique store trinkets to handmade local art and everything in between, you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for each other.
A Walk To Remember
Get your heart racing on a walk to remember. Cross the catwalk underneath the famed New River Gorge Bridge on a Bridge Walk tour. This three-hour adventure takes place 850 feet above the New River and offers one-of-a-kind panoramic views.
Dinner For Two
The way to someone’s heart is through their stomach, right? Treat your sweetheart to a delicious meal at one of our local restaurants. With indulgent breakfast specials, specialty pizza and craft beer, your stomach will stay as full as your heart in the Gorge this year. Browse our best spots to dine to help plan your date.
Test Your Teamwork Skills
The activities in the New River Gorge aren’t just for the outdoors. Go head-to-head at bowling! With 12 lanes of fun, a delicious restaurant with local craft beer on tap and a pet-friendly patio, Pinheads Fun Center is the ultimate date spot. Test your teamwork skills at Escape-A-Torium. Work together to uncover clues and solve puzzles to escape a room in under an hour. Escape-A-Torium has four different escape rooms, ranging from beginner to advanced. Pick your experience level and let the adventure begin.
Namaste All Day
From stretching your levels of trust to strengthening your communication, couples yoga can have a positive impact on your relationship that extends beyond the physical benefits. Attend a class at New River Yoga to relax and reconnect with one another.
Summer Lovin’
Can’t make it to the Gorge this Valentine’s Day? The next best gift is a raincheck! Sunny days on the river and late nights by the fire – surprise your sweetheart with a summertime getaway. Book your activities and lodging for your future trip now! Request a copy of our free travel guide to help plan your vacation.