GLEN JEAN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – New River Gorge National Park & Preserve has just celebrated its third anniversary as a national park.
On December 27, 2020, President Donald Trump made the designation official with his signature.
The designation was included in an end-of-year omnibus spending/COVID relief bill passed by Congress in late December 2020.
Since its designation, the park has seen increased visitation and over a thousand jobs created due to the park.
In 2022 alone, the park saw over 1.5 million visitors.
The park has been dubbed one of the most affordable as there is currently no fee to enter or camp within the park.
This year to date, the park has seen 1,656,112 visitors, an 11.1% increase from last year. All visitor centers have also seen increased visitation this year.
The New River Gorge is known not only for its beautiful vistas, but its history and unique culture.
The New River Gorge was once a major industrial hub, with multiple businesses, coal mines, and mining towns lining the river.
Access to those communities was made possible by the Chesapeake & Ohio (C&O) Railway, which still runs through the gorge today as CSX Transportation.
Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like rock climbing, hiking the Endless Wall Trail, and whitewater rafting on the New River.
Overall, there are endless opportunities to be had within the park. From history to recreation, there’s something for everyone.
To learn more about New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, click here.