It’s easily accessible via Interstate 64, Interstate 77 and Interstate 79, and was a quick enough four-hour drive for me from Charlotte. population, according to Visit Southern West Virginia.
The New River Gorge area is located less than a day’s drive from over 50% of the U.S. It may be easier to access this outdoor wonderland than you think. Related: I grew up next to a national park – and I took it for granted (Photo courtesy of the West Virginia Department of Tourism) Getting there The difference between a park and a preserve? You can hunt in a preserve, but not a national park.
About 7,000 acres of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve comprise the national park, while the other 65,000 make up the protected national preserve. It was upgraded to national park and preserve status in 2020, making it the U.S.’s 63rd national park. The 53-mile stretch of the New River between Bluestone and Hawk’s Nest dams became part of the National Park System in 1978. Thanks to its unique orientation, it provides an ideal corridor for migratory animals, creating a rich display of endemic wildlife. Fun fact: The river is also one of the few waterways in North America that runs north. Its existence spans back to the time of the supercontinent Pangea some 299 million years ago. Situated in the Appalachian Mountains of southern West Virginia, the New River is the world’s second-oldest river. Here’s your guide to the many lures in and around the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.įor more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter. I did my best to make up for lost time, though, exploring outdoor diversions beyond the river. It’s embarrassing to admit, but this native West Virginian was pushing 50 years old when she hit the iconic rapids of the state’s New River for the very first time. The following story is part of this series. We will share personal stories from the TPG team, as well as news and tips that will help you get the most out of your next national park visit.
Editor’s note: In celebration of National Park Week, which runs from April 16-24, The Points Guy is publishing a series of articles focusing on the beauty and diversity of America’s national parks.
0 kommentar(er)
