Introducing America’s newest national park, located in West Virginia

Travellers looking for fun and adventure in the great outdoors should put West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park & Preserve at the top of their bucket lists.

Recently named ‘Best Family Trip in the U.S.’ in 2023 by Outside Magazine, the park – one of West Virginia’s most photographed areas – was redesigned in December 2020 as the United States’ 63rd and newest national park. It offers a plethora of action-packed adventures like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, and hiking along miles of trails. It’s also known for its southern hospitality and uncrowded mountain towns.

“There’s an abundance of spectacular public lands to explore all over the state, including the New River Gorge,” said Mary Turner, Outside Magazine’s deputy editor and travel director. “We chose the park as the winner for best family adventure in the U.S. because it has so many recreational opportunities for every age and expertise level.”

The designation comes on the heels of other distinguished mentions for the park, by such acclaimed organizations like National Geographic, Frommer’s, TIME, and AFAR, all of which have labelled New River Gorge a must-visit destination.

National and international acclaim for West Virginia hasn’t been limited to the Gorge, however; the state has been tapped as a top-tier destination by a long list of major publications in recent years, including Condé Nast, Lonely Planet, CNN and Forbes.

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is easily accessible by flying into Charleston, West Virginia then taking a scenic road trip via Route 19 and I-64. The park’s iconic steel arch bridge was once the longest in the world and welcomes travellers to this cherished region. Widely known as the second oldest river in the world, the New River cuts through extensive geological formations that make way for diverse flora and fauna. Visitors will be able to spot bald eagles and peregrine falcons that call this park home, plus explore the remnants of old coal mining towns situated along hiking trails.

To make the most of their visit to the park, travellers can book one of several cozy cabins or unique vacation rentals that offers rest and relaxation after a day of adventure.

For more information go to wvtourism.com or request a free vacation guide here.