Make Plans For Bridge Day 2025 

June 2, 2025

Bridge Day returns Saturday, October 18, 2025, and there’s no better time to experience the New River Gorge in all its fall glory. This is the ultimate destination for adrenaline seekers, outdoor enthusiasts and festival lovers alike. 

Held every third Saturday in October, Bridge Day is the state’s largest single-day event, drawing tens of thousands of visitors to the rim of the Gorge — and onto the bridge itself — for a one-of-a-kind celebration.

The steel arch New River Gorge Bridge photographed from below with rappel lines featured, against a clear blue sky.
Person BASE jumping from a scissor lift platform while spectators watch from below.

What Makes Bridge Day Special?

At the heart of the action is the New River Gorge Bridge, towering 876 feet above the New River. On this day only, the bridge closes to vehicles and opens to pedestrians, transforming into a bustling festival. It’s also the only day of the year when professionals BASE jump from the bridge into the Gorge below, while rappellers ascend and descend from the bridge’s catwalk.

Adding to the excitement, this will be the fourth Bridge Day held within the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, it’s the perfect chance to experience one of America’s most scenic national parks during peak fall color.

What To Expect

As you walk the length of the bridge, you’ll find 200 vendors offering everything from handcrafted art to delicious local delicacies. Outdoor outfitters also get in on the action, guiding whitewater rafting trips that provide a unique view of the bridge from the river below.

For architecture lovers, this is a rare opportunity to walk across the Western Hemisphere’s longest single-arch bridge — a marvel of engineering that spans 3,030 feet.

Need-To-Know Information

Bridge Day is free to attend and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shuttle service is available for $5 cash to help you get to and from the event. Keep in mind that coolers, chairs and pets are not permitted. Only clear bags are allowed and can be purchased in advance through the Fayette County Chamber of Commerce website.

Before you go, check the official Bridge Day website for full details on rules, regulations, shuttle stops and more. 

Crowd of people walking past vendor tents near a New River Gorge National Park sign during autumn with colorful fall foliage
Motion-blurred people walking past a yellow and red Bridge Day event tent with autumn trees in the background

Make A Weekend Of It

The fun kicks off the night before with Taste of Bridge Day, held Friday, October 17, at Adventures on the Gorge. Sample local flavors, enjoy live music, browse artisan booths and take in some of the best sunset views in the Gorge. This popular event often sells out quickly, so plan to arrive early.

Saturday morning begins with the Bridge Day 5K Run, hosted by Active Southern West Virginia, giving runners a rare chance to cross the bridge before the crowds. Later in the day, head to Fayetteville for the Bridge Day Chili Cook-Off — a beloved tradition where local cooks serve up bold and creative chili recipes.

Explore the New River Gorge

Bridge Day may be the main event, but there’s so much more to explore while you’re here. Stay an extra day or two to hike, bike, climb or just cruise the scenic byways. Fall foliage is typically at its peak, and the views are nothing short of spectacular. Find the full list of activities available to round out your weekend. 

For the latest updates and behind-the-scenes peeks, follow Bridge Day on social media — and don’t forget to share your experience with #BridgeDay2025.