New River Gorge Bridge is located in the Appalachian Mountains in West Virginia. The majestic steel arch bridge stretches across the lush New River Gorge. Its breathtaking construction and the beautiful surroundings are just two of many reasons to visit New River Gorge Bridge.
A breathtaking construction
The New River Gorge Bridge was the longest single-span arch bridge in the world when it was completed in 1977. Its record setting arch is a dramatic 1,700 feet (518 m) long. Today New River Gorge Bridge is no longer the very longest single-span arch bridge of them all, but the construction is still as impressive.
Not only is the length of New River Gorge Bridge impressive. The height of New River Gorge Bridge is as spectacular as its length. With a height of 876 feet (267 m) above the river New River Gorge Bridge is also one of the highest vehicular bridges in the entire world.
The bridge is easily accessible
Maybe you’re going to spend whole days in the area, or possibly you’re just in need of a short stop after many hours on the road. No matter which, the short walk to the Bridge Overlook right by the side of U.S. Route 19 will make you amazed.
When you park your car you’re just steps away from some truly amazing lookouts. The steel arch bridge itself is impressive and the green mountainous surroundings with water flowing at the bottom of the gorge absolutely doesn’t make it less so.
For amazing time in the outdoors
First of all the national park that New River Gorge is located in is packed with great trails. The trails let you explore the stunning surroundings at the bridge. You can hike all the way to the bottom of the gorge or you can remain at higher elevation.
But the nice selection of trails to choose from is not all. The New River Gorge Bridge area is also home to great fishing locations and rafting activities. So you really have a great opportunity to spend some active time in the nature when you visit New River Gorge.
To see a historical mining site
The Kaymoor Miners Trail takes you down to the old mining site in New River Gorge. Visiting is a nice way to explore a part of West Virginia’s coal mining history.
Just be prepared for a rugged and steep trail along with stairs with in total more than 800 steps if you choose to go all the way down to the New River Gorge mine. You’re almost guaranteed to feel it in your legs the day after.
Visit and find your own favorite lookout over the gorge
The most popular overlook is the Bridge Overlook right by the side of U.S. Route 19. It’s easily accessible and gives you spectacular views over New River Gorge Bridge.
But there are more beautiful overlooks than you can count throughout New River Gorge. To find a beautiful lookout is easy in the New River Gorge area. But to find a favorite one is much harder.
To remember the improvements
The construction of New River Gorge Bridge was completed in 1977. Its effect on the local economy and transportation was huge. The travel time from one side of the gorge to the other was greatly reduced with the bridge.
Before New River Bridge was built it took approximately 45 minutes to cross the gorge. With the West Virginia bridge in place that time instead is 45 seconds. A fun way to remember how it used to be and enjoy scenic views from the comfort of your own car is to drive the old route.
Why you should make a stop at New River Gorge Bridge FAQ
Here you find the answers to some frequently asked visiting New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia.
The New River Gorge Bridge is located on U.S. Route 19 north of Fayetteville in West Virginia.
The bridge was once with its 1,700 feet (518 m) length the longest single-span arch bridge in the world. Though it is no longer the longest in the world, it’s still an extremely impressive construction and one of the most scenic places of the Appalachian Mountains.
Yes, it is possible to walk on the bridge if you book a guided tour.
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