Welcome to New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, a place where nature and history intertwine to tell the story of America’s past. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, this 70,000-acre park is more than just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts—it’s a living museum of cultural and natural history.
The story of the New River Gorge begins with its very name, which is something of a misnomer. Despite being called the ‘New’ River, this waterway is one of the oldest on the continent, with its origins tracing back hundreds of millions of years. It carves a path through the Appalachian Plateau, creating the longest and deepest river gorge in the region, offering breathtaking vistas and a wealth of geological features.
In 1978, the area was designated as a national river by President Jimmy Carter, officially recognized for its natural, scenic, and historic significance. This was a pivotal moment that cemented the preservation of the gorge’s unique ecosystem and cultural heritage. Then, in 2020, it was redesignated as a national park and preserve, marking a new chapter in its ongoing story.
The New River Gorge is steeped in rich history, particularly of the coal and railroad industries that boomed in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The remains of the once-thriving boomtown of Thurmond offer a window into this bygone era. At its peak, Thurmond was a bustling hub, with coal being the lifeblood that ran through its veins. The town’s historic district, now a ghostly reminder of its prosperous past, is preserved for visitors to explore.
Among the legendary tales that echo through the gorge is the story of John Henry, the ‘Steel Driving Man.’ As the legend goes, Henry was an African American railroad worker known for his incredible strength and endurance. He famously raced against a steam-powered drill to prove the superiority of human skill and labor, a contest that ended in victory for Henry, but at the cost of his life. This tale, part of the area’s folklore, symbolizes the human spirit and the struggles of the working class during the industrial revolution.
The park also honors the journey of Mary Draper Ingles, a pioneer woman whose story is one of resilience and survival. Captured by Native Americans in the mid-1700s, Ingles made a harrowing escape through the wilderness, traversing the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains to return to her family.
Today, New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is a sanctuary for both adventure and reflection. Visitors can hike through its lush forests, white-water raft down its exhilarating rapids, and climb its towering sandstone cliffs. The park provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species that find refuge in this protected space.
The legacy of New River Gorge is one of preservation and reverence for the land and its stories. It stands as a testament to the forces of nature and the human spirit, inviting all who visit to immerse themselves in its beauty and history.
