Fall Events In and Around the New River Gorge
Image by B Rosen
West Virginia’s New River Gorge is a spectacular destination year-round, but the area truly comes alive in the fall. If you went to Fayetteville for Bridge Day last Saturday, plan to head back as there’s a lot to do for all ages to round out your next couple of weekends in the New River Gorge.
Plan a New River Train Excursion
Take the whole family on a scenic train ride through the Gorge with New River Train Excursions. The train will follow the old C&O line from Huntington to Hinton, weaving through the hills through peak fall colors. When you arrive, Railroad Days will be in full swing. You can learn more about the C&O Railway at the Hinton Railroad Museum and enjoy the live music, food, and vendors in the streets of downtown Hinton. Unlike other areas in West Virginia, these scenic train rides only run for the last two weekends of October, so don’t miss out.
Image by jpmueller99
Spooky Adventures Await
If spooky is more your speed, you can’t miss Nightmare in the Gorge. Located in Oak Hill just minutes from the Gorge, ACE Adventure Resort provides several haunted attractions, including the Warehouse of Terror and the Devil’s Mine Shaft. For the most adventurous thrillseekers, check out the Night Zip Line, where you can fly through the Gorge by zip-line in complete darkness. Tickets are available online here.
Image by Skeeze
Take a Hike!
For visitors wanting a little adventure, take a hike along one of the New River Gorge trails. The fall foliage will be at its peak soon, and the display of colors will be breathtaking! The trails offer everything from hiking to biking and horseback riding. The trails along the New River Gorge are perfect for a family hike or the more experienced hiker. Which one are you ready to explore? Better yet, why not hike them all? National Take a Hike day will be here on November 17th- what better way to celebrate than with a planned hiking excursion at the New River Gorge?
Whether you prefer hiking, ghost-hunting, or sightseeing, October is the best time of year to visit southern West Virginia and the New River Gorge. Don’t let your weekend slip by without a visit to the New River Gorge- there is indeed something for everyone in this area, young or old. Enjoy the season and have fun!
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