Backpacking
Backpacking in New River Gorge and Preserve offers a chance to fully experience the rugged beauty of West Virginia's Appalachian wilderness.
Plan Around Backpacking
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Backpacking Details
Backpacking in the park offers a chance to fully experience the rugged beauty of West Virginia's Appalachian wilderness. While the park features nearly 100 miles of trails, most are designed for day hikes, but a few provide excellent opportunities for overnight trips. The Glade Creek Trail follows a scenic waterway, offering a peaceful forested route, while the Kates Plateau Trail provides a more secluded and diverse terrain. For those looking to explore less-traveled areas, the Polls Plateau Trail delivers a true backcountry experience. Backcountry camping is allowed along the riverbanks of the New and Gauley Rivers on National Park Service land, provided campers do not damage natural resources. However, restrictions apply to protect sensitive environments and historical sites. Camping is prohibited within 100 feet of trails, water sources, and historic ruins, as well as within 300 feet of clifftops and cliff bottoms. Specific areas, such as the Kaymoor and Nuttallburg historic sites, also remain off-limits to camping. To preserve the park's natural beauty, backpackers should follow Leave No Trace principles by minimizing waste, using lightweight stoves, securing food, and camping on durable surfaces. Group sizes are limited to eight people with a maximum of two tents, and campfires must be contained within designated fire pans or rings. Given the park's challenging terrain and the presence of private property within its boundaries, careful planning is essential. Backpackers should review trail maps, check current regulations, and consult park officials before setting out to ensure a safe and responsible adventure.
Difficulty
Open
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N/A
Estimated time
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Region
Things to Do
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