Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge
While the New River Gorge Bridge itself steals the headlines, the southern end of the bridge is where the real exploration begins.
Plan Around Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge Details
While the New River Gorge Bridge itself steals the headlines, the southern end of the bridge is where the real exploration begins. This less-traveled access point is your entryway to adventure, where towering steel meets Appalachian wilderness. Located just south of the bridge's soaring span, this area offers more than just a scenic pull-off-it's a hub for history, hikes, and adrenaline-fueled fun. Here's where you'll find the Bridge Walk experience, a thrilling guided tour beneath the bridge along its catwalk. Suspended high above the New River, you'll be clipped into a safety harness as you soak up jaw-dropping views of the gorge's lush, forested canyon walls and the mighty river winding far below. If your feet prefer solid ground, hop on Fayette Station Road, a twisting, historic byway that descends deep into the gorge's heart. Along the way, you'll pass through remnants of coal mining towns and cross under the bridge via the historic Tunney Hunsaker Bridge, feeling dwarfed by the massive steel arch above. The southern end also offers trail access and interpretive signs that highlight the area's industrial past and natural wonders. It's a quieter counterpart to the bustling overlooks at the north end, giving you a more intimate and immersive encounter with the New River Gorge's captivating story. Whether you're here to snap photos, seek thrills, or lose yourself in the layered beauty of this Appalachian icon, the southern end of the bridge is where every great gorge adventure kicks off.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
N/A
Region
Fayette Station Road Tour
Nearby Parks Around Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge
Compare nearby parks around Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Southern End of the New River Gorge Bridge while the map context is still fresh.
0.2 mi away
Canyon Rim Boardwalk
This 0.6-mile round-trip boardwalk is all about instant gratification, leading you straight to one of the park's most iconic sights: the New River Gorge Bridge, arching gracefully over the rugged Appalachian landscape.
0.2 mi away
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
The Canyon Rim Visitor Center, located just north of Fayetteville, West Virginia, serves as the premier gateway to New River Gorge and Preserve.
0.2 mi away
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
If you're venturing into New River Gorge & Preserve, the Canyon Rim Visitor Center is your first stop for a perfect introduction to this stunning landscape.
0.2 mi away
Canyon Rim Visitor Center
Perched within New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, the Canyon Rim Visitor Center is the perfect starting point for exploring this iconic Appalachian landscape.
0.2 mi away
Canyon Rim Visitor Center Picnic Area
Welcome to one of the most scenic lunch spots in the park! The Canyon Rim Visitor Center Picnic Area combines practicality with jaw-dropping scenery.
