The New River Gorge Bridge has become one of the symbols of America’s newest national park. The steel arch bridge stretches over 3,000 feet (more than a half mile) over the New River. Built in 1977, the bridge is now on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s the longest steel span in the Western Hemisphere and the third highest bridge in the United States, standing 876 feet over the river below. Every third Saturday in October is also the official Bridge Day. There you can gather on the bridge to see base jumpers, bungee jumpers and parachuters take off from the bridge. You can also get a guided tour of the bridge from the catwalk below it.

To truly experience the West Virginia wilderness, choose one of the park’s many trails. For an easy 2.3 miles, try the Endless Wall Trail. Named because of its proximity to a cliff edge, the trail is full of great views of the valley and river below. It’s an easy hike and dogs are permitted if on a leash. The Long Point Trail is about 3 miles out and back. Here you’ll also get great views of the area, plus you’ll be able to see the New River Gorge Bridge in the distance. Leashed dogs are also permitted on this trail.

Perhaps no geographic feature in the country is as oxymoronic as the New River. At millions of years old, the river is one of the oldest geographic features in the United States. It’s also one of the premier spots for whitewater rafting east of the Mississippi River. For a milder experience, the Upper Gorge is generally easier with Class III rapids and is more suitable for beginners. For a more intense experience, the Lower Gorge had Class V rapids and should only be navigated by experienced rafters or with a guide. Because of its popularity, there are several tours companies that are available for rafting on the river both in and outside of the park.