Kayaking and whitewater canoeing provide the best ways to see the canyon, particularly the lower section where there are no roads or trails. The entire Smoke Hole river run is about 25 miles. Squirrel, grouse, turkey, deer, rabbit and bear hunting is popular in late fall. Most of the land in the Smoke Hole is managed by the Forest Service and is open to hunting subject to West Virginia hunting regulations. Be aware of private land and do not trespass.
Caves are common in the area.
Some are home to the endangered Virginia big-eared bat and are therefore closed to visitors during critical nesting or hibernation periods. Many caves are located on private land.