The route, connecting Chicago, Illinois and Washington D.C., runs its course through the gorge during daylight hours, so each trip promises a beautiful excursion. Several Visitor Centers are located along the New River Gorge. Canyon Rim Visitor Center is located just off of Rt. 19, beside the New River Gorge Bridge. This interpretive center provides a history lesson on the New River, the world's second oldest river and is open year-round featuring museum exhibits and an illustrated program.
Overlooks provide excellent photo opportunities of the bridge.
Take a step into the past while visiting Thurmond, a virtual ghost town located along the New River. The historic Thurmond Depot has been restored to serve as a park visitor center. Exhibits and historic furnishings bring the golden days of railroading back to life. The New River hosts over 250,000 whitewater and outdoor enthusiasts each year. They come seeking the excitement and a history lesson while challenging the river and its surrounding area.