Description

A centerpiece of America's 63rd national park, the New River Gorge Bridge is **the** must-see attraction for anyone planning a visit.

This short walk begins at the the main park visitor center and leads to a great overlook with amazing views - a perfect option for any member of the family.

At most, set aside 30 minutes to enjoy this at a leisurely stroll.

Leashed pets *are* always welcome to join! The upper observation deck is even wheelchair-accessible. To enjoy this hike, find your way to the Canyon Rim Visitor Center near Fayetteville, WV.

It's just over an hour from Charleston or Interstate 79, and less than 30 minutes from Beckley.

Water and restrooms are available year-round, and there is plenty of parking for larger vehicles, RVs, and busses.

The visitor center also hosts an abundance of exhibits and ranger-led programs, with more information [available here](https://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/crvc.htm). Competed in the late 1970s, "the bridge reduced a 40-minute drive down narrow mountain roads and across one of North America's oldest rivers to less than a minute," the park notes.

It's widely considered one of the "most photographed places in West Virginia" and even listed in the National Register of Historic Places as a "significant historic resource." It was also minted onto a commemorative quarter in 2006 - which you could likely find in your wallet, purse, or car wash fund. An official holiday famously known as "Bridge Day" occurs on the 3rd Saturday of October and is "West Virginia's largest one-day festival [and] the largest extreme sports event in the world.

More information on this annual event [can be found here](https://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/nrgbridge.htm). [NPS](https://www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/nrgbridge.htm)