Summersville, West Virginia, is the perfect destination for a spring break filled with outdoor adventures and relaxing moments. The lake levels are low enough to allow for climbing the cliffs, so March is perfect timing. It’s easy to seek out the sun and socialize. Whether you're an avid climber or just looking for a cozy getaway, this charming town has something for everyone. Here’s a short itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Winter climbing in the New River Gorge isn’t just possible—it can be downright glorious if you know where to go. With crisp temps, low humidity, and fewer crowds, cold-weather sending conditions can be prime. The trick? Finding sun-drenched rock to keep your fingers from turning into icicles.

Here’s your guide to the best south-facing crags in the NRG to help you stay warm while crushing this winter.

We’re challenging you to hike every trail in the New River Gorge by the end of 2025!  Let’s explore the Gorge together and earn some awesome rewards along the way!

Looking for the perfect gift for the outdoorsy folks in your life? Whether they're scaling cliffs, conquering trails, or setting up camp under the stars, our holiday gift guide has something for everyone. From must-have gear to thoughtful goodie baskets and inspiring reads, you'll find ideas to make their next adventure unforgettable.

This past July, my boyfriend Shane and I tackled a 166-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail, from Pearisburg, VA to Damascus.  I've been slowly accumulating ultralight gear for years, weighing every item, and plugging it into my spreadsheet.  Long-distance hiking has always fascinated me, and I finally had the chance to put it all to the test.

So you want to climb in the New River Gorge. Congrats - you’ve already made a great decision by picking out a world-class destination! With over 3,000 routes and counting on 60+ miles of cliffline, as well as hundreds of established boulder problems, you’ve got a lot of options.

Hey there, adventure seekers! Jeff Hearn here, your friendly neighborhood manager and guide at New River Mountain Guides. If you've ever ventured out to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, you've probably noticed the same thing I have: climbers. Lots and lots of climbers. They’re as much a part of the landscape as the stunning cliffs themselves.

I’ve never been a fan of performance powders, gummies, or gels – not only do I not love the taste, they honestly make me feel a bit sick. I cook up a storm at home, but I feel like I’ve never really dialed in on how to fuel my adventures on the trail or at the crag. So when I came across a copy of Peak Nutrition: Smart Fuel for Outdoors by Maria Hines & Mercedes Pollmeier, I was definitely intrigued.

Last April, I pulled up the windy road in the pre-dawn darkness to the race start, and I thought, “am I really ready for this?” I reviewed my checklist of race items, wondered what layers of clothing I should commit to and scanned the emerging group of runners and race organizers to see who I recognized in the misty West Virginia morning. I was about to step off and run the longest distance I had ever run in my forty-three years.

As a part of the Appalachian Temperate Rainforest, the New River Gorge receives about 26 inches of rain per year on average. That’s a lot of rain - and forecasts here are often less than helpful. Fortunately, afternoon showers shouldn’t have to put a damper on your climbing plans.