New River Gorge National Park Self-Guided GPS Audio Driving Tour

What's included

• Access to the New River Gorge National Park Tour in the Shaka Guide app
• Offline map and audio after download
• Stories, history, local insight, and park recommendations
• Flexible itinerary with optional stops, viewpoints, and hikes
• Turn-by-turn audio navigation that plays automatically as you drive
• Tour access does not expire
• One purchase covers everyone in your vehicle
• Multiple designated starting points around the park

What's not included

• In-person tour guide
• Transportation or rental vehicle
• Food and drinks
• Personal expenses

Itinerary

• Once a thriving hub of coal mining and transportation, Thurmond now stands as a preserved time capsule. It offers visitors a glimpse into the region's rich industrial past. The ghost town is famous for its well-preserved train depot, which serves as a museum. It shows exhibits and artifacts that detail the area's coal mining heritage. With its beautiful location along the New River, Thurmond invites exploration. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and significance of the coal industry and railroad, shaping the local community and the surrounding natural landscape.
• A hiking trail that offers an unforgettable adventure and stunning vistas. This moderate 3.2-mile out-and-back trail winds through a forest, leading hikers to the breathtaking Long Point Overlook. Once you reach the overlook, prepare to be amazed by the panoramic views of the New River Gorge Bridge. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in West Virginia.
• Explore a challenging trail through the remains of the historic Kaymoor mining complex. Temporary access notice: portions of the upper Kaymoor Miners Trail are closed Monday through Thursday through November 19, 2026, for trail rehabilitation. Access may vary, so follow posted National Park Service signs and current conditions during your visit.
• The Canyon Rim Visitor Center serves as the gateway to the awe-inspiring wonders of New River Gorge. Located on the edge of the majestic gorge, this visitor center offers a wealth of information and resources for visitors. It improves their exploration of the park. Inside, you'll find informative displays on the area's geology, ecology, and cultural history. Step outside onto the observation decks, and you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge. The sprawling canyon below adds to the awe-inspiring scenery.
• Whether you're admiring the vibrant fall foliage or capturing stunning photographs, the Fayette Station Road scenic drive offers a calm experience. It allows you to immerse yourself in the old way of crossing the New River Gorge, down and up a winding road. On the first stop of the scenic drive, we’ll visit overlooks directly underneath the New River Gorge Bridge. This will allow you to appreciate the engineering marvel from a new angle.
• We’ll park by the river and walk to the Tunney Hunsaker Bridge, or the ‘little bridge’ as some call it. This was the only way to cross the New River Gorge for a long time. Today, it’s the midpoint of the Fayette Station Road scenic drive. A walking path on the side provides excellent views of the New River, and the big bridge above.
• Stop at Wolf Creek Trailhead for a quick walk to two nearby waterfalls, both just a short distance from the trailhead. If you’d like a longer adventure, the trail continues toward the historic Kaymoor Mine area. Spend as much or as little time here as you’d like before continuing the tour.
• A captivating, moderately difficult hiking trail that winds along the rim of the gorge for 2.4 miles. It showcases the raw beauty of the rugged canyon as it winds through forests and along towering cliffs. Along the way, hikers are treated to breathtaking vistas of the New River winding through the gorge. Stunning rock formations that attract climbers from around the world can also be observed. The trail is a loop, with two parking lots to choose from. Our recommendation is to hike as far as Diamond Point from either of the lots. Then, turn around and return to the car.
• The main attraction at Babcock State Park is a beautiful and iconic landmark. It's a fully working replica of a historic water-powered mill. Surrounded by lush greenery and set against the backdrop of babbling Glade Creek, the mill's rustic wooden structure, complete with a working water wheel, exudes charm and memories. It’s a popular photography spot! The state park also has its own hiking trails and a gift shop in the visitor center.
• This visitor center has exhibits on the area’s ecosystems and human history. It’s also a handy stop to get information about Sandstone Falls. This is before starting on an optional, but very scenic drive towards the waterfall.
• If you're on the fence about driving all the way to Sandstone Falls, you can get a small peek at this overlook. The view isn’t fantastic, but it’s useful as a turnaround point. It can be used if you decide to prioritize other parts of the park.
• This overlook offers a nice view of the New River Gorge from a few hundred feet up. The road descends closer to the river level as it heads towards Hinton. The overlook is just a small pull-off, but the view is better than the one at Sandstone Falls Overlook.

Good to know

• Service animals allowed
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• This is a self-guiduided driving tour. Transportation and a driver are not included, so you’ll need your own vehicle or rental car.
• Choose from six designated starting points. Navigate to the starting point that best fits your route before beginning; GPS-guided tour directions will start once you reach the tour route.
• Download the Shaka Guide app after booking. Use the redemption code provided in your confirmation to access your tour.
• Download the tour over strong Wi-Fi before you go. Once downloaded, the audio and map work offline.
• The itinerary is flexible. Stops and hikes are recommendations, not requirements. Skip stops, shorten or extend your visit, and customize the day based on your interests and schedule.
• Hiking is optional. Some recommended trails range from easy walks to more strenuous hikes, so choose activities appropriate for your group and current conditions.
• Accessibility varies by stop. Because this is a self-guided tour using your own vehicle, accessibility depends on your vehicle and the locations you choose to visit. Some trails and outdoor stops may not be wheelchair or stroller accessible.
• Bring a fully charged phone. A car charger is recommended for a full-day tour.

Meeting point

North of Beckley, WV on Route 19

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

• English audio