New River Gorge National Park Wins Coveted Journey Rating

U.S. News and World Report has named the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve because the nation’s primary greatest, underrated journey vacation spot.  

Making the announcement from a sunny, scenic platform overlooking the protect, Gov. Patrick Morrisey known as it a part of the state’s comeback story.  

“It’s a pretty amazing thing, and so I’m really thrilled about it. I think it’s going to lead to even more people wanting to explore our incredible state,” Morrisey stated. 

In compiling its checklist, the corporate evaluates greater than 1,500 locations annually.  

“With its majestic, forested hills and deep canyons, New River Gorge is often compared to the Smokies, but with shorter peaks, a more compact footprint and much smaller crowds,” the corporate wrote in its report. “Adrenaline seekers come for world-class rafting beneath the 876-foot-tall New River Gorge Bridge. Visitors should also take in the gorge from above on the Endless Wall Trail.”  

Nestled alongside the New River in Fayette County, the protect stretches 53 miles and encompasses greater than 70,000 acres of wildlife.  

Morrisey stated the highest rating will drive much more guests to the state. 

“People care about the environment. They care about the pristine nature of the area that they’re visiting,” Morrisey stated. “So we get to help our state out so much by showing off our wonderful, underrated travel destination.”  

Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby, readily available for the announcement, stated her division’s analysis exhibits guests return to West Virginia 12 months after 12 months – and their numbers are rising. 

“People are coming here, and they’re having unbelievable experiences, and they keep coming back. We see that this is one of the top places in the world for outdoor recreation,” she stated. 

Ruby stated tourism traits point out that when selecting a trip spot, Americans are searching for – so as of recognition – mountaineering, tenting, kayaking and rafting, fishing and mountain biking, all issues West Virginia affords in abundance.