The New River Gorge is a summertime paradise for the outdoor adventure seeker. But just because winter has pushed summer aside doesn’t mean its time to hibernate in these parts. In fact, some activities you’d think of as summertime pursuits can be a bit more pleasant and rewarding this time of year.
Here’s a look at some of the winter activities in and around the New River Gorge:
Winter Wonderland – Photo by the New River Gorge National River
- Bridge Walk– The chance to go underneath the New River Gorge Bridge doesn’t end with warm temperatures. The deck of the Bridge gives great coverage from precipitation. The Gorge is a different kind of beautiful this time of year.
- Zip Lines– An exhilarating, year round activity that offers a much different perspective when the leaves are gone. There are several zip lines in the area, and each one is different. Zipping through the snow sounds like fun to us!
- Hiking– This is one of those activities that often becomes a bit more pleasant with cooler temperatures. And now that leaves are gone, you’ll be able to see the many old coal mining structures that are along Gorge hiking trails. In the winter they are exposed and easier to locate and explore.
- Cross country skiing– These same hiking trails, with enough snow cover, can provide some very diverse cross country skiing terrain.
- Biking– Lots of new biking trails were built in the Gorge this summer. A cold, dry winter can mean lots of mountain biking opportunities.
These are some adventures that many of us can participate in.
But, there are extreme weather paddlers who will raft or kayak the areas rivers and streams almost every month of the year. Because winter is a wet season, some of the best paddling begins in November.
Hunting and fishing are also popular wintertime activities. Trout are still somewhat active. Grouse, rabbit, and duck and goose seasons extend into late January and February.
And of course, Winterplace Ski Resort is about 45 minutes from the Gorge. This ski resort offers a variety of slopes for all expertise levels. We love the tubing park, which will be a hit with everyone in your group.
So there’s really no excuse. Get outside and play!
What are you doing this winter in the Gorge?