Drive the rim of New River Gorge at your own pace with an audio guide that triggers local stories and directions as you go. Stops include the New River Gorge Bridge, Sandstone Falls, Endless Wall Trail and historic Thurmond.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The road climbs along the canyon rim and the New River dares you to stop: a ribbon of water carving slate and sandstone, spray from falls drifting into the sun. Drive bridges and overlooks where wind sketches the cliff edges and the bridge frame dwarfs everything below. The audio guide places a local voice in your passenger seat—pointing out pullouts, ghost towns and where to lace up for a short hike.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours (suggested); flexible for half to multi-day
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; short walks and optional moderate hikes up to a few miles
Wildlife
History
The gorge’s towns grew with 19th–20th century coal and rail development; the 1977 New River Gorge Bridge transformed travel and opened the area to recreation.
Conservation
Stay on designated roads and trails to protect fragile sandstone cliffs and riparian zones; pack out trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of New River Gorge National Park today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Pre-download the tour
Download the GuideAlong app and the audio file over Wi‑Fi before you leave—no cell service is required once it’s saved.
Bring power and audio options
Use a USB/C car charger and pair via Bluetooth or use your phone speaker; CarPlay/Android Auto are not supported.
Plan for short hikes
Pack sturdy shoes and 1L water for short trail detours like Endless Wall or Wolf Creek Falls; trails can be rocky and exposed.
Respect historical sites
When visiting Thurmond or railroad relics, stay on marked paths and avoid climbing on structures or artifacts.
Phone with GuideAlong app
Required to run the audio tour and GPS-triggered narration.
USB/C car charger
Keeps devices charged during long drives and while using GPS audio.
Sturdy day shoes
Useful for short hikes and uneven boardwalks at overlooks and falls.
spring|summer|fall
Water bottle (1L+)
Hydration for stops and short hikes where services are limited.
summer