Once a thriving hub of coal mining and transportation, Thurmond now stands as a preserved time capsule, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich industrial past. The ghost town is renowned for its well-preserved train depot, which serves as a museum, showcasing exhibits and artifacts that detail the area's coal mining heritage. With its picturesque location along the New River, Thurmond invites exploration and serves as a reminder of the resilience and significance of the coal industry, and railroad, shaping the local community and the surrounding natural landscape.

A hiking trail that offers an unforgettable adventure and stunning vistas. This moderate 3.2-mile out-and-back trail winds through a forest, leading hikers to the breathtaking Long Point Overlook. Once you reach the overlook, prepare to be awe-struck by the panoramic views of the New River Gorge Bridge, one of the most iconic landmarks in West Virginia.

This difficult 1.5-mile round trip trail takes hikers on a captivating exploration through remnants of the Kaymoor coal mine, once a bustling industrial complex. As you trek along the trail, you'll encounter the remnants of coal processing structures, mine entrances, and more. However, the trail isn’t for the faint of heart, as much of the trail heads downhill going in, and then uphill all the way back up, with hundreds of steps.

The Canyon Rim Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the awe-inspiring wonders of New River Gorge. Located on the edge of the majestic gorge, this visitor center offers a wealth of information and resources for visitors to enhance their exploration of the park. Inside, you'll find informative displays on the area's geology, ecology, and cultural history. Step outside onto the observation decks, and you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge and the sprawling canyon below.

We’ll park by the river and walk to the Tunney Hunsaker Bridge, or the ‘little bridge’ as some call it. This was the only way to cross the New River Gorge for a long time. Today, it’s the midpoint of the Fayette Station Road scenic drive. A walking path on the side provides excellent views of the New River, and the big bridge above.

A captivating, moderately difficult hiking trail that meanders along the rim of the gorge, this 2.4-mile trail showcases the raw beauty of the rugged canyon as it winds through forests and along towering cliffs. Along the way, hikers are treated to breathtaking vistas of the New River winding through the gorge, as well as stunning rock formations that attract climbers from around the world. The trail is a loop, with two parking lots to choose from. Our recommendation is to hike as far as Diamond Point from either of the lots, and to turn around to the car.

The main attraction at Babcock State Park is a picturesque and iconic landmark: a fully functional replica of a historic water-powered mill. Surrounded by lush greenery and set against the backdrop of babbling Glade Creek, the mill's rustic wooden structure, complete with a working water wheel, exudes charm and nostalgia. It’s a popular photography spot! The state park also has its own hiking trails, and a gift shop in the visitor center.

This visitor center has exhibits on the area’s ecosystems and human history. It’s also a handy stop to get information about Sandstone Falls before embarking on an optional, but very scenic drive towards the waterfall.

One of the highlights of the park, Sandstone Falls spreads 1500 feet across the entire New River as it descends into crumbling rock formations. A series of boardwalks take you through a wooded island in the middle of the river, and to different views of the falls. For a more secluded experience, try the Island Loop Trail, which is an easy, half mile trail through the woods of the island.

One of the ‘grandest’ views of the park, the Grandview area has something for everyone. The main overlook sits near the highest point in the park, overlooking a spectacular curve in the gorge. A handful of trails leave from near the overlook, taking hikers along the cliff walls and to additional scenic overlooks of the river. Grandview also sports a seasonal visitor center, informational wayside stations, and a playground.