April is a fantastic time to explore Southern West Virginia and the New River Gorge as spring blooms across the mountains. With nature waking up and outdoor adventures calling, here are some exciting activities to enjoy during your visit:
1. Hiking in the Gorge
Spring brings fresh greenery and stunning wildflowers, making April one of the best months to hike in the New River Gorge. Popular trails like the Endless Wall Trail, Long Point Trail, and Kaymoor Miners Trail offer breathtaking views and manageable spring temperatures.
2. Whitewater Rafting Season Begins
April marks the return of whitewater rafting season. With the spring thaw raising water levels, this is prime time for thrilling rapids. The Upper New River provides family-friendly floats, while the Lower New River offers heart-pounding Class III-V rapids.
3. Climbing Season Kicks Off
Rock climbers flock to the New River Gorge in spring when temperatures are perfect, and the sandstone cliffs provide excellent conditions. Popular climbing spots include Endless Wall and Junkyard.
4. Fishing on the New River
Anglers can cast their lines for smallmouth bass, walleye, and catfish as the fish become more active in April. The New River’s mix of fast-moving water and calm pools creates excellent fishing opportunities.
5. Scenic Drives and Photography
Take a drive along the Midland Trail (US-60) or Fayette Station Road for spectacular views of the gorge in bloom. Bring your camera to capture iconic landmarks like the New River Gorge Bridge framed by vibrant spring foliage.
6. Visit Historic Towns and Museums
Explore charming towns like Fayetteville, Beckley, and Hinton, each rich with history and unique local shops. The Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine offers a glimpse into the region’s mining heritage.
7. Mountain Biking Adventures
The Arrowhead Trails, designed by the Boy Scouts of America, provide a top-notch mountain biking experience with well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels.
8. Dine at Local Favorites
Cap off your adventure with delicious dining experiences. Don’t miss out on local gems like Pies & Pints or the unique dining experience at The Gaines Estate, known for its incredible view and flavorful dishes.
9. Explore Local Events and Festivals
April 5 @ 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Oak Leaf Festival’s 2nd Annual Spring Fling
Lewis Community Center 469 Central Avenue, Oak Hill, WV, United States
OAK LEAF FESTIVAL’S 2ND ANNUAL SPRING FLINGCOME JOIN US AT THE 2ND ANNUAL SPRING FLING CRAFT SHOW BEING HELD AT THE LEWIS COMMUNITY CENTER ON CENTRAL AVENUE IN OAK HILL….
April 5 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
Native Gardening for Wildlife at Wood Thrush Park
Wood Thrush Park 334 Richland Ln, Lewisburg, West Virginia
Join Appalachian Headwaters Native Plant Team, led by Bella Walker, to learn about spring gardening with native wildlife in mind! Planting native perennials on your property can greatly enhance the…
April 5 @ 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Wild & Wonderful Paint Party at ACE Adventure Resort
The Lost Paddle at ACE ACE Adventure Resort | West Virginia White Water Rafting, 1 Concho road, Oak Hill, WV 25901, United States, Oak Hill, West Virginia, United States
Come join us at The Lost Paddle for a Paint and Sip on Saturday April 5th at 6:00pm! We will be painting a Mushroom Forest! $35/person includes all materials and…
April 5 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Lights Out presents A Tribute to Frankie Valli and More at Carnegie Hall
Carnegie Hall 611 Church St, Lewisburg, WV 24901, USA, Lewisburg, West Virginia, United States
On Saturday, April 5, 2025, at 7 p.m., Lights Out presents A Tribute to Frankie Valli and More. Beinghailed as the nation’s #1 Tribute to Frankie Valli and the Four…
April 10 @ 7:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Beckley Concert Association: Dimitri Nassar Quartet
Woodrow Wilson High School Auditorium 400 Stanaford Rd, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
April 10 – 13, 2025
New River Gorge Wild Flower Weekend
New river Gorge National Park and Preserve, Lansing WV
New River Gorge Wildflower Weekend offers guided hikes and educational programs about the area’s diverse plant life.
April 12 @ 10:00 am – 3:30 pm
Annual Feast of the Ramson
City of Richwood Richwood, WV 26261, USA, Richwood, West Virginia, United States
In addition to a traditional menu of ham, bacon, potatoes, brown beans, and cornbread, the pleasing aroma of sassafras tea will challenge the somewhat pungent, distinctive odor of the delicious…
April 12 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Lewisburg Chocolate Festival
Downtown Lewisburg Lewisburg, WV 24901, USA, Lewisburg, West Virginia, United States
Feb 14- Tickets go on sale at Greenbrier Valley Visitor’s Center Feb 28- Tickets go on sale online Get ready for the Lewisburg Chocolate Festival!!!! April 12th 11am-3pmWill Call hours…
April 12 @ 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Newly Dead Dame Murder Mystery Dinner at ACE Adventure Resort
The Lost Paddle at ACE ACE Adventure Resort | West Virginia White Water Rafting, 1 Concho road, Oak Hill, WV 25901, United States, Oak Hill, West Virginia, United States
TV Host, Bill Eubanks, hosts a dangerous game that pits newly married couples against one another in a series of revealing question rounds to determine how much they really know…
April 16 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
iLuminate @ Chuck Mathena Center
The Chuck Mathena Center 2 Stafford Commons, Princeton, WV 24740, USA, Princeton, West Virginia, United States
From the moment the lights fade to darkness, you’re transported into another world…another dimension, where the music moves you and the visuals are unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Welcome to…
April 17 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 18 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 19 @ 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Ramp It Up Festival at ACE Adventure Resort
ACE Adventure Resort ACE Adventure Resort, 1 Concho road, Oak Hill, WV 25901, United States, Oak Hill, West Virginia, United States
Experience the flavors of Appalachia as we honor the region’s culinary treasure—the ramp—and welcome the arrival of spring in the stunning West Virginia mountains. Indulge in a ramp-focused feast featuring…
April 19 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 20 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Easter Luncheon at Tamarack Marketplace
Tamarack Marketplace 1 Tamarack Place, Beckley, West Virginia
Join us for a delightful Easter Luncheon filled with festive fun for the whole family! Enjoy a delicious buffet featuring seasonal favorites, perfect for gathering with loved ones. Capture the joy of…
April 20 @ 11:30 am – 4:00 pm
Easter Buffet at Glade Springs
The Resort at Glade Springs 255 Resort Drive, Daniels, WV 25832, USA
The Resort at Glade Springs is proud to present our annual Easter Buffet. Held in the Bright Ballroom, guests can reserve one of two seatings: 11:30am or 2:00pm.All buffet guests…
April 20 @ 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 23 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 24 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 25 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 26 @ 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
15th Annual Ramps and Rail Festival
Ramps and Rails Festival in Elkins celebrates Appalachian food traditions with wild ramp dishes and live music.
April 26 @ 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Le Nozze di Figaro @ Greenbrier Valley Theatre
On April 26, Mozart’s timeless comedy returns to cinemas worldwide with a live transmission from the Metropolitan Opera. Conductor Joana Mallwitz, in her Met debut, takes the podium to conduct…
April 26 @ 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Southern West Virginia Rubber Ducky Cash Dash
Fitzpatrick Park 896 Fitzpatrick Rd, Beckley, West Virginia
Take part in one of Beckley’s greatest races, the Rubber Ducky Cash Dash! Adopt one rubber duck for $5 or a whole flock of 25 for $100 for a chance…
April 26 @ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
WV Collective Presents: Steel Magnolias
The Raleigh Playhouse and Theatre 403 Neville St, Beckley, WV 25801, USA, Beckley, West Virginia, United States
WV Collective is thrilled to present “Steel Magnolias,” a heartwarming and poignant drama that celebrates the strength and resilience of women in a small-town Southern community. Written by Robert Harling,…
April 27 @ 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Picklefest at Greenbrier Valley Brewing
Greenbrier Valley Brewing Company 862 Industrial Park Rd, Lewisburg, WV 24901, USA, Lewisburg, West Virginia, United States
We LOVE pickles and we are celebrating the pickle on Sunday, April 27th at the brewery. Featuring best pickle contest, craft vendors, special beer release and live music. Check Facebook…
April 30 – May 3
The Mullens Dogwood Festival, Inc.
City of Mullens Mullens, WV 25882, USA, Mullens, West Virginia, United States
The Mullens Dogwood Festival is an exciting tradition since 1979 held in May of each year. Come for crafts, exhibits, food, carnival, music, and more! Check Facebook page for full…
April in Southern West Virginia offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether you’re exploring the trails, paddling the river, or enjoying local flavors, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences waiting for you in the New River Gorge.