Download free topo maps of New River Gorge National River. Use the adjoining 7.5 minute quadrangle legend to locate the West Virginia maps you need.
New River Gorge National River extends over an area of 70,000 acres along the path of the New River. This incredibly beautiful Park is filled with cascading waterfalls, white waters, scenic trails, numerous recreational activities and an opportunity to visit sites that are of cultural and historic significance. The lands of the region are traversed within the Gorge by The New River, which has been designated as an American Heritage River. Many visitors come for the white water rafting that rushes through the canyons of the Gorge, or for recreational hiking, camping or the pleasure of spending time at Grandview, formerly a popular State Park that has been incorporated into the New River Gorge National River Park. Others tour the historic towns on the river, as well as the Visitor Centers with trails and overlooks offering spectacular views of the river, cascades and more. Cascade Rim Visitor Center offers exhibits, films, interpretive programs, a boardwalk, Ranger-led walks and hikes. At the Sandstone Visitor Center learn about the natural and cultural history of the New River, in addition to other offerings. Thurman Station has exhibits and is furnished to recall the heydays of the booming industrial and railroad years; the era of steam and coal. There is a tremendous variance of activities and sights to be enjoyed, including rock climbing, birding, photography or just viewing the river and forest. Hike the trails, watch for wildlife, wildflowers in season, visit Turkey Spur overlook, watch for huge stone formations along the trails, see the New River Gorge Bridge that spans the mile wide gorge or attend Bridge Day, celebrated every October to commemorate the completion of this Bridge. During the summer months the Theatre West Virginia has open-air drama, while others come to Grandville for picnics and the children's playground. This vast area also encompasses Gauley River Recreation Area and Bluestone National Scenic River which are all in close proximity. A stop by one of the Visitor Centers has brochures and information regarding all of the amazing sights, including informative information regarding the historic towns, the legend of John Henry; and the remarkable story of pioneer Mary Draper Ingles who escaped from Indian captivity following her abduction during the French and Indian War in the 1750's. This is an enthralling story of one of the first settlers along the River.