Enjoy what may be the world’s most exciting white water rafting, bungee jumping and parachuting, several historic buildings, scenic overlooks, and a good railroad museum.
Most people think of the Grand Canyon when whitewater rafting is talked about, but perhaps the most exciting rafting is in southern West Virginia. You might also realize that driving there could be pleasurable, too. We start at the New River Gorge Bridge, famous for parachuting and bungee jumping. About thirty miles southeast of Charleston, close to Fayetteville, drive north on U.S. 19 for 4 miles to U.S. 60 (The Midland Trail), south 10 miles to Route 44, south 29 more miles to Route 61 (Piney View), then south 5 miles to Beckley. From that location, take I-64 east 16 miles to Route 20 (Sandstone), south 31 miles to Princeton, then U.S. 19, 35 miles north back to Beckley.
You must go rafting while you are visiting here. Outfitters are everywhere, and they can tailor the ride to your desires and skills. Other sights along the drive include several historic (early-1800s) scenic overlooks and ancient buildings. Sandstone Falls is close to Hinton, where you will also find the New River Gorge Visitor’s Center, and a good railroad museum with tools John Henry used in his race with a steam drill in the vicinity of Big Bend Tunnel. Beckley has a fine Coal Mine Exhibition Camp.
Starting Point:
New River Gorge, WV
Distance of Drive:
120 miles
Must Eat Spot:
Bobcat’s Den
Hinton Bypass, Hinton, West Virginia 25951
Phone: 304-466-3550
Call ahead to confirm hours of operation.
Best Time of Year for Drive:
Spring to fall
Points of Interest on Drive:
Sandstone Falls
New River Gorge Bridge
Tagged with: best time:spring and fall • West Virginia
Filed under: Best Road Trips