Adventure Tourism

We don’t call this the Mountain State for nothing. West Virginia is “Wild and Wonderful,” and Raleigh County,  located in the outdoor epicenter of the East Coast, has access to all the fun. The New River Gorge is a destination for paddlers and fishermen, climbers, mountain bikers, birders, and hikers alike. Don’t forget the snow sports! From hiking the New River Gorge during full springtime Rhododendron bloom to skiing, snowboarding, and tubing at our local ski resort, Winterplace, this region has all the adventure you can handle!

Raleigh County is in close proximity to the world renowned whitewater rafting and kayaking of the New and Gauley Rivers. There’s a wide range of rafting outfitters to choose from and plenty of difficulty and intensity levels to choose from. The New River offers big volume advanced runs and beginner trips all Spring, Summer and Fall. The Gauley River offers technical, low volume raft and inflatable kayak trips all Spring and Summer, with a big bang in the Fall for Gauley Season. Whatever your group preference, number, and ability levels, there’s a whitewater option to suit your fancy. Many outfitters also have other adventure activities available such as ATV and mountain bike tours, rock climbing, zip lines, and horseback rides.

The Mountain State is literally covered with prime mountain biking terrain. Raleigh County is no exception. This area boasts huge swaths of land that serve as Parks and Recreation public lands and mountain bike trails abound the spectacularly scenic region. When you touch down in Raleigh County Memorial Airport, you can be out on a good trail in a matter of minutes.
The New River Gorge Region is a climbing destination for climbers all over the world. Close proximity to the major population centers of the Mid-Atlantic and East Coast means convenient weekend trips. Plus, there is a wide variety of sport and traditional climbing routs with easy hike-in access. There are several professional guide services available to get you to climbing areas that meet your group’s needs and ability levels. Plus, there’s the New River Climbing Rendezvous every spring.
Located within fifteen minutes of Beckley, the Burning Rock Off-Road Park is a great adventure destination for Raleigh County visitors and residents alike. With almost 8,000 acres of reclaimed mining land and 100 miles total of trails, this park will keep you tuned in all day long. Visit www.burningrockwv.com for more information.
Most outdoor enthusiasts know that West Virginia’s New and Gauley Rivers are two of whitewater rafting’s crown jewels. For the avid kayaker, Raleigh County’s awesome kayaking runs include Glade Creek, Marsh Fork of Big Coal River, and Peachtree Creek.
The New River Gorge is a great region for horseback riding. Several professional outfitters make this scenic, relaxing activity completely accessible. Go it alone, or bring the whole family and take in this amazing area.
West Virginia is ripe with prime fishing lakes, rivers and streams. Anglers will find big bass, fat walleyes, plentiful crappie and monster stripers and catfish are plentiful. The New River, famous for it's small mouth bass, flows through Raleigh County. There are a wealth of feeder streams, lakes and ponds that are full of fish for the catching.
With so much public land in our area, it’s no wonder the local hunting is so bountiful. Area hunters enjoy full seasons for deer, bear, turkey, squirrel and other game.