As the back-to-school season looms, there’s still time to squeeze in one last adventure — and there’s no better place to do it than the New River Gorge. Whether you’ve got kids to entertain, teens to tire out, or you’re just not ready to let go of summer, the Gorge delivers a perfect mix of wild fun, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Here’s your go-to guide for making the most of those final summer days in West Virginia’s adventure capital:
1. Ride the Rapids (or Just Float Along)
Whitewater rafting on the New or Gauley River is a bucket-list experience — and late summer is an ideal time to go. The water is warm, the sun is shining, and the vibe is all about fun. Outfitters offer kid-friendly trips on the Upper New for families with younger adventurers, while older kids (and adults) can take on the thrill of the Lower New’s bigger rapids.
Not quite ready for whitewater? Tubing or stand-up paddleboarding on the calmer stretches of the river is the ultimate chill-out activity.
2. Hike to an Epic View
Get those legs moving before the classroom calls! There are tons of short-and-sweet hikes in the Gorge that deliver jaw-dropping views without too much effort.
- Endless Wall Trail: A must-do, especially for a family photo with a view.
- Long Point Trail: Ends with an epic overlook of the New River Gorge Bridge.
- Grandview Rim Trail: Great for kids, with wide paths and panoramic vistas.
Pack some snacks, take your time, and soak in the sights before the routine returns.
3. Explore a Hidden Swimming Hole
Cool off the old-fashioned way — by jumping in. There are plenty of secret (and not-so-secret) spots to take a dip around the Gorge. Ask a local or your rafting outfitter for directions to places like Glade Creek or the Meadow River — quiet, refreshing, and surrounded by nature at its finest.
4. Climb, Zip, or Soar
If your crew is craving something bold, try:
- Rock Climbing: Beginner-friendly routes are available with local guides.
- Ziplining: Fly above the trees with tours like the Gravity Zip Line, perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Bridge Walk: Take a guided walk under the New River Gorge Bridge on a catwalk suspended 851 feet above the river. It’s part adventure, part engineering marvel, and totally unforgettable.
5. Squeeze in Some Local Flavor
Before the lunchboxes and homework return, treat the fam to some laid-back eats and small-town charm. Grab burgers at Secret Sandwich Society, ice cream at The Stache, or pizza and patio time at Pies & Pints.
You’ll also find plenty of local events in late summer — outdoor movie nights, live music, farmers markets, and pop-up festivals where kids can play and grownups can relax.
6. Camp Under the Stars
Whether you’re pitching a tent, glamping in a cabin, or cozying up in an A-frame, a night (or two) under the stars is the perfect way to wrap up summer break. The skies are dark, the fireflies are still out, and campfire stories hit different when you know school’s just around the corner.
Make It Count
Before the early mornings, lunch-packing, and bus stop drop-offs return, take a little time to reconnect — with nature, with your family, with yourself. The New River Gorge offers space to roam, play, laugh, and make memories that will stick long after the backpacks come out.
So grab your crew, lace up your shoes, and go chase that last little bit of summer. The Gorge is ready when you are.