Summersville sits at the edge of the New River Gorge region — one of the newest national parks and one of the best climbing and whitewater destinations in the country. The lake is five minutes away. The gorge, twenty. Whether you're here to climb, paddle, raft, or just float, it's all close.
Beaver - The big one — and one of the most beautiful trails in the park. The trail follows Glade Creek through constantly changing scenery, past waterfalls, the best swimming holes in the Gorge, and rope swings you'll want to use. You don't have to hike all 11 miles; even the first few miles reward you generously. Bring waterproof boots — the trail can be muddy.
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Hinton - Sandstone Falls spans 1,500 feet across the New River — the widest waterfall in West Virginia — and the accessible boardwalk makes it one of the few hikes in the park that's genuinely easy for all ages and abilities. The island loop trail adds a little more distance and rewards you with the full breadth of the falls from mid-river. A great choice with kids or for an easy evening walk.
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Garten - Short but punishing, this trail descends 800+ wooden steps into the gorge to reach the preserved ruins of the Kaymoor coal mining complex. The history embedded in this place — the inclined railway relics, the mining structures — gives the hike a weight that stays with you. Budget 2–3 hours and know you'll earn every step back up.
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Grandview - Start at the Grandview Visitor Center and you're rewarded almost immediately with the view of Horseshoe Bend — a giant oxbow in the New River where the gorge reaches 1,400 feet deep. The rhododendron blooms here in May and June are spectacular.
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A gorgeous woodland trail through old-growth forest, rhododendron thickets, and mountain laurel, leading out to Diamond Point Overlook with stunning views of the Nuttall Sandstone wall and the river 1,000 feet below. Rock climbers are almost always visible on the cliffs — and you can access the climbing walls via ladders if you're feeling bold. Start early on weekends, the parking lot fills up fast.
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Fayetteville - The classic Gorge hike, and for good reason. A relatively gentle walk through deciduous forest brings you to a sandstone rock outcropping nearly 1,000 feet above the New River, with an unobstructed view of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Pack a lunch and linger — the sunrise and sunset lighting here is exceptional.
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Summersville - The climbers' trail to the Coliseum and Orange Oswald walls at Summersville Lake, WV, is accessed from the new parking lot behind the temporary headquarters at Summersville State Park. A ~5-minute trail starts near the new restrooms, leads down metal stairs, and passes through the forest to these popular, south-facing sport climbing areas. Worth checking out just to see the Coliseum. Also a great spot to go for a dip on those hotter days.
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Summersville - A small movie theater just down the road playing a small selection of new releases. An easy escape on a rainy day or off-day from adventure. 5 minute drive.
Lewisburg - Discovered in 1942, Lost World Caverns drops you 120 feet below the Earth's surface into a wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites — a 45-minute self-guided tour through some serious underground geology. Located in Lewisburg, about 1 hour 20 minutes from us, but worth combining with a trip through that beautiful little downtown and the drive is beautiful.
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Beckley - A fair representation of the mining experiences in Appalachia — a guided underground rail tour through an actual coal mine, led by former miners who know every inch of what they're showing you. The history of this region lives here, and it's compelling. In Beckley, about 50 minutes south.
Open April 1 - November 1
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Beckley - A singular experience out in this area if you’re up for a drive. Located it Beckley, about 50 minutes south, you’ll find this dog-friendly venue houses a large collection of creations by local artists and artisans. An on-site restaurant means you never have to venture outside.
See current exhibits HERE
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Oak Hill - Pinheads Bowling is located down in Oak Hill, so about a 35 minute drive, but worth it on a rainy day or off-day from other activities. It’s a classic bowling alley with 12 lanes, a solid bar menu, rotating beers on tap and pitchers offered if you’re looking to hang. A strong recommend.
Fayetteville - One of the more surprising finds in downtown Fayetteville — a well-designed escape room venue with themed rooms. The themes rotate, so check the site below for the most up-to-date roster. They occasionally feature Scarebnb - an airbnb themed escape room. If you liked Barbarian (2022) and like getting spooked, this is for you.
Fayetteville - GRIPPED FITNESS is a state-of-the-art climbing, pickleball and fitness facility just a few miles from the New River Gorge Bridge. If you’re wanting to get a workout in on a rainy day this is as good a spot as you’ll find. $18 for a day pass.
This is what brought us to The New. With over 3,000 established climbing routes on its famous Nuttall sandstone walls and countless boulders to hop on it's one of the top climbing destinations in the country. Whether you’re looking to boulder, get into some sport climbing, trad climbing, or top roping (we won’t judge you), there’s something for you.
Ansted - A different kind of river experience — board a covered jet boat at Hawks Nest State Park and cruise through the gorge with some of the best views of the New River Gorge Bridge you can get from water level. Fully covered and great even if rain moves in.
Summersville - Yes, scuba diving — in West Virginia. The lake's incredible clarity and depth (up to 327 feet) make it one of the best freshwater dive sites on the East Coast, with cliffs, boulders, overhangs, and underwater rock formations to explore. Sarge's Dive Shop runs certifications, charters, and rentals from mid-May through mid-September. If you've never dived, they can take you from zero experience to underwater in a weekend.
Summersville - Nicknamed the 'Little Bahamas of the East,' Summersville Lake boasts some of the clearest freshwater you'll find east of the Mississippi — visibility up to 70 feet on a good day, with an almost aqua tint to the water in direct sun. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard, explore the coves and inlets, and swim at Battle Run Beach (the main public swim area). The lake is at its best June through September.
The New River is one of the premier whitewater destinations in the country, with something for everyone — the Upper New offers a more mellow Class I–III experience perfect for families and first-timers, while the Lower New ramps up to Class IV–V for experienced thrill-seekers. The Gauley River in September and October, during the controlled dam releases from Summersville Lake, is world-class whitewater that draws paddlers from across the country.
ACE Rafting →
Adventures on The Gorge →
West Virginia, nicknamed “Almost Heaven”, exemplifies this sobriquet best on certain drives through the state. If you’re flying in and driving from Charleston this is a good opportunity to sample some of the best there is by way of sheer beauty. Experience rolling hills, pristine water, roaring waterfalls, beautiful colors and so much more as you navigate your way down West Virginia’s iconic country roads.
Oak Hill - One of the most popular non-hiking activities in the area, and for good reason — ACE's zip line canopy tour sends you through the forest canopy with stunning gorge views throughout. Great for all fitness levels and a fun option if you have non-hikers in the group.
Ansted - A scenic overlook, an aerial tram down into the gorge, and the Cliff Side Trail along the sandstone ridgeline — Hawks Nest is a worthy half-day stop, especially for the views of the New River and the dam. There’s also a solid restaurant with sweeping views of the valley if you’re looking for something a bit more upscale. Located on Route 60, about 20 minutes from your stay.
Lansing - Walk across the catwalk suspended beneath the New River Gorge Bridge — 851 feet above the river, with panoramic views in every direction. It runs even in the rain (you'll want a jacket; it's noticeably cooler under the bridge), and temperatures under the arch are 10–15 degrees below the rim. A genuinely singular experience.
Fayetteville - Before the bridge existed, this 8-mile road was the only way across the gorge — and driving it today is still one of the best ways to feel the full scale of the place. The road descends from the Canyon Rim Visitor Center all the way to the river, crosses a narrow historic bridge, and climbs back up the other side. Take it slow, pull over often, and do it around golden hour if you can.
Lansing - The New River Gorge Bridge is the second-longest single arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, and the Canyon Rim Visitor Center offers the best overview of its scale. The short boardwalk trail down to the overlook decks is worth every step — bring a camera. The Visitor Center itself has excellent exhibits on the park's natural and mining history.
NPS Visitor Info →
Lansing - Rafting, zip lining, ropes courses and more. If you’re looking for a day of curated adventure, this is a good place to start. Located just off the gorge you’ll find easy access to much of what the New offers through their grounds.
Oak Hill - Classic feeling operation with 24 ice cream flavors and hand made cones. A strong recommend if you’re down in the Oak Hill area and are in need of a sweet fix. If you ever find yourself in the unusual position of needing an ice cream trailer for an event, they can provide. Located in Oak Hill.
Lansing - Ice cream and fudge just off the highway and across the way from the NPS visitors center. If you’re looking for a gift to give or a tchotchke to commemorate your visit there’s a good chance you can track something down in here as well.
Fayetteville - Family-friendly ice cream shop with a large selection of flavors and a menu of food items, plus outdoor seating. Located in Downtown Fayetteville.
Oak Hill - Hot dogs, chili, hamburgers, and ice cream with a drive-thru if you’re looking for food on the go. Feels similar to a Burger King from the 90’s. Located in Oak Hill (just south of Fayetteville).
Summersville - Casual restaurant offering hot dogs, hoagies, ice cream, and other comfort foods. A bit out of the way, but worth it if you’re looking for a classic feel and some good ice cream. Located 15 minutes west of downtown Summersville.
Mt. Nebo - Soft-serve ice cream, hot dogs and burger joint with outdoor seating and friendly service right on the lake. A strong recommend, particularly on those hot days where all you want to do is be lake side. Located in Mt. Nebo right on the lake.
Summersville - A good hamburger and solid diner-esque go-to’s. Family friendly. Ice cream parlor is part of the restaurant and is a good get post Bandido’s. Located in downtown Summersville. If you’re up for a walk, you can walk this.
Clifftop - Babcock State Park has 4,127 acres of stunning scenery. Located 20 miles southeast of the New River Gorge Bridge, the park is known for the Glade Creek Grist Mill, a fully functional replica of the original Cooper’s Mill that once stood on the grounds. Other attractions include recreational activities like hiking, fishing, mountain biking and whitewater rafting in the nearby New River Gorge.
Summersville - 5 minutes down the road you’ll find Summersville Lake. Here you can hike, boat, climb, fish, mountain bike, picnic, and much more. As West Virginia’s newest state park, a substantial amount of work has been done to improve access. We strongly recommend a visit. It’s a short drive to a great spot.
Fayette County - A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent. The park encompasses over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, is rich in cultural and natural history, and offers an abundance of scenic and recreational opportunities - hiking, climbing, white water rafting and kayaking, boating and much more.
Summersville - The Walmart. It’s exactly what it is everywhere else. They have groceries, clothing, outdoor gear, and almost everything else.
Summersville - Your standard issue grocery store. If you’re looking for groceries, this is the closest run-of-the-mill grocery store you’ll find.
Summersville - A discount grocery store just down the hill with all the basics. If you need groceries they have you covered.
Fayetteville - The Brew Garden is an extension of Water Stone (outdoor gear shop in Fayetteville) - Cherry River Coffee Roasters have partnered with the shop to provide quality coffee and espresso drinks. A great option if you also need to get some gear shopping done.
Fayetteville - The Brew Garden is an extension of Water Stone (outdoor gear shop in Fayetteville) - stop by after sunset for a cold beer - there’s a deck behind the store for kicking back and complementary Wi-Fi.
Summersville - A small local grocer specializing in organic, gluten-free, and all additional things healthy living. They carry essential oils, CBD oils, vitamins, and more.
Summersville - Fresh cuts of meat, a large selection of specialty cheeses, alongside a decent selection of additional grocery items - eggs, dairy, produce, and a good bit of candy. Located in Summersville.
Summersville - Our favorite local spot for provisions. All locally sourced and fresh. They have produce, meat, eggs, cheese, honey, teas and a good bit more. All of it is seasonal, so stock will change with the seasons. If you want to whip up some stellar bacon and eggs, this is a good spot to source your ingredients. A strong recommend.
Summersville - A cute shop in downtown Summersville (walkable) with specialty coffees and unique donuts made daily. If you don’t want to brew your own coffee and are up for a morning walk, this is almost straight down the hill.
Mt. Nebo - Fun seasonal drinks, friendly staff, and a solid cup of coffee. It’s a short 10 minute drive and on the way to many an adventure south of your stay. An easy stop if you didn’t have time to grab coffee at the cabin.
Fayetteville - If you want good coffee this is the place to come - located in downtown Fayetteville and across the street in both directions from good food (Wood Iron and Cathedral Cafe). Rotating pour-over, great espresso drinks, and friendly staff. There isn’t much by way of food beyond a small pastry box, but you come here for good coffee. They also sell beans if you’re interested in taking some home.
Fayetteville - American fare with some twists - thai noodle salad and poutine -with a large selection of craft beers located in the middle of town.
Summersville - A laid back operation with laid back service, a small but solid menu if looking for hot dogs and the like, and very good craft beer. A deck and yard are available in addition to the indoor seating where you’ll find board games, a fire pit, and a generally good time. If you’re up for a walk, it’s walkable.
Fayetteville - Good vibes, a large fire pit, lots of outdoor seating and a cathedral-esque indoor/outdoor room. Lots of beers to choose from all brewed by three guys who care a lot about making good beers. Check it out.
Beer List
Hico — a short drive between Steepwood and Fayetteville — Freefolk is a craft beer outpost with a free-spirited ethos, good food, ping pong, games, a large outdoor seating area and more. Worth timing a stop on your way into or out of the Gorge. This is one of our favorite spots.
No list would be complete without Tudor’s Biscuit World. You can’t miss it on the way into town (just off the 19) and it’s a perfectly fine option if you want to load up on calories and/or get a quick bite.
The closest thing to fine dining in the area (that we’ve found). We haven’t been, so can’t testify to the food, but reports on Google suggest it’s decent and the grounds as well as the building are a fun diversion if looking for something out of the ordinary.
Family-friendly spot for Puerto Rican and Venezuelan fare, plus outdoor dining, games, and a bar.
Great breakfast sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs and pepperoni rolls alongside a lot more. A local spot beloved by the locals and those visiting.
Something of an establishment in Fayetteville and the first Pies & Pints in WV- wood fired pizzas, a rotating list of craft beers, and a good experience on all fronts.
Rustic-style tavern featuring creative sandwiches, plus soup, salad, beer, cider & live music. Another good option if you’re looking to get something for a day of adventuring. Pro-tip: order ahead as waits can get lengthy.
American fare with some twists - thai noodle salad and poutine -with a large selection of craft beers located in the middle of town.
An old standby - it was our go-to 15 years ago on our first visit to the area and remains a staple. Former church converted into an artsy, relaxed hangout for coffee & eclectic American fare.
A great spot in downtown Fayetteville. Expect a line weekend mornings. The upstairs is ideal for kiddos - there’s a large play area with climbing wall, books, and games. Food and drink are both solid - the “AM Handheld” is a favorite.
Ansted - As good as views get while eating. Perched above the Gorge, this restaurant is part of the Hawk’s Nest State Park building. The food is decent, the surroundings are incredible.
Hico - This is at the top of our list. Great beer, very good food that varies from pizza to gyros, ping pong, darts, a large outdoor area with corn hole, plenty of seating and fire pits. We strongly recommend. 18 minute drive.
Mt. Lookout - One of our go-to’s. They have a section of pre-portioned ready-to-go food, so ideal for a day of adventure. A rotating list of beers is available and a cozy outdoor space with fire pits awaits post-adventure.
A laid back operation with laid back service, a small but solid menu if looking for hot dogs and the like, and very good craft beer. A deck and yard are available in addition to the indoor seating where you’ll find board games, a fire pit, and a generally good time.
American food and drink ranging from burgers to hot dogs alongside a few vegetarian options, plus beer, wine and cocktails.
Decent food, large portions, fair pricing, and family friendly. Can’t go wrong if you’re looking for any of the above.
Two Youtube Chef’s collaborate for a memorable experience. Hibachi, Sushi, and Japanese Steak are all served up with zest.
A bar-and-grill menu with everything you’d expect. Burgers, wings, nachos, fried pickles, potato skins, quesadillas, alongside some more specialty dishes. Try the Ribeye! Though it appears a hole-in-the-wall from the street it opens up inside and has a spacious rear deck.
No frills diner food. Gets the job done and is walkable if you’re up for a jaunt down the hill.
A good hamburger and solid diner-esque go-to’s. Family friendly. Ice cream parlor is part of the restaurant and is a good get post Bandido’s.
Very good Mexican food. Large beers. Fast service. A surprising find in downtown Summersville and a short 5 minute drive from the property.
Fayetteville - Water Stone Outdoors has been selling outdoor gear and apparel in Fayetteville, WV since 1994. Climbing gear, hiking gear, gear gear and much more. If you need something to get outdoors, odds are that they’ll have it.
Fayetteville - They carry a full range of outdoor gear and apparel. While their specialty has always been whitewater paddling they also offer a wide selection of outdoor and camping gear, trail running and hiking footwear, climbing gear and casual outdoor and leisure apparel.