West Virginia’s New National Park is just a short day trip from Morgantown — New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. This newest national park gained its elevated status through the Federal stimulus bill passed at the end of 2020. Recently signed into law, it became the nation’s 63rd national park. West Virginians have a long history with the area. It is a goto place for mountain-biking, hiking, rock-climbing, and white-water rafting adventures.

  • For the hiking set there are over 100 miles of fabulous trails.
  • Bikers enjoy the miles of old railroad grade established.
  • Climbers can try their skills at more than 1400 established climbs.
  • Rafters have options that range from gentle waves to challenging class V rapids.

For the less adventuresome, the park boasts miles of scenic drives and spectacular vistas.

More than a tremendous place for humans, however, this park also has global importance as the most diverse habitat of forest flora of any in the Appalachian Mountains. The river cut a deep gorge creating habitats in the rimrocks, cliff faces and forest floor and canopy. Endangered mammals, rare amphibian and bird species make their home here. Specifically three — the Virginia big-eared bat and Indiana bat and the Allegheny woodrat — endangered species make their home in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. The Park’s river system his home to native fish, crayfish, mussels, and a vast array of additional aquatic creatures, including rare amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.

From Morgantown, in just over two hours’ drive you arrive at the park entrance to begin your adventure. West Virginia shares many National Parks with nearby states, but has two additional exclusive National Parks:

Of course, Morgantown provides access to a plethora of outdoor adventures spots. If you love the outdoors you’ll want to make your home near the many opportunities enjoy it. For hiking, rafting, climbing or biking, make your home in or around Northern West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania. Our team specializes in the counties that encompass this area. And we can help you start your adventure in one of these available homes.

Homes for the Adventuresome