Day-walk storage
30–35L Hiking Daypack
Carry spare layers and walking supplies; check fit and use a liner for valuables.
Fly & Drive guide
Fly into BKW, drive to New River Gorge National Park
53 min drive25 milesNo entry permit
Trip snapshot
Arrival airport- BKW
Airport drive- 53 min · estimate
Suggested stay- 2–4 days
Reservation demand- Lower · check current rules
Vehicle notes- A vehicle with high clearance is beneficial for some gravel access roads; check rental restrictions for off-pavement use.
Your route
BKW
Raleigh County Memorial Airport
New River Gorge National Park
About 53 min · 25 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.
Your arrival plan
Step 1Flights to BKW
Compare fares into Raleigh County Memorial Airport.
Find flights
Step 2Standard car at BKW
Pick up at the airport and drive straight to New River Gorge National Park. Compare rental companies in one search. Est. from $45/day · typical rate.
Compare rentals
Step 2SUV at BKW
Select an SUV, pickup location and dates on Airport Rentals. Est. from $55/day · typical rate.
Compare SUVs
Before you goStore extra bags
Early arrival or late flight home? Drop luggage nearby and keep the car light for the park.
Find storage
03 · First night near New River Gorge National Park
Sleep close after the drive so day one starts in the park.
Step 3Hotels near New River Gorge National Park
Est. from $110/night · typical rate. Compare hotels and lodges; check cancellation terms on Expedia.
Search Expedia
Step 3Cabins & homes near New River Gorge National Park
Est. from $120/night · typical rate. Whole homes and cabins for families or groups.
Search VrboBefore you land
Reservations
Permits and Logistics for West Virginia’s Deepest Gorge
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve does not currently require a general entry permit, but specific activities like commercial whitewater rafting and group camping must be booked through official outfitters or the federal reservation system. Check the official NPS site for seasonal facility closures and changes to the Bridge Day access rules.
Official reservation infoBest time to fly in
April – October
Your route
Day 1 · Rim Views and Historic Spans
Canyon Rim Visitor Center → Endless Wall Trail
Day 2 · Gorge Depth and Industrial Heritage
Fayette Station Road → Thurmond Historic District
Day 3 · Southern Falls and River Vistas
Sandstone Falls → Grandview Overlook
Viator
Tours & experiences near New River Gorge National Park
Explore guided activities around New River Gorge National Park. Check the meeting point, dates and availability on Viator before booking.
Open tour listings separatelyCurated Trip Essentials
Five picks for New River Gorge National Park
Water on walking days
2L Hydration Pack
Carry drinking water on longer walks; refill before leaving services.
Cool-weather stops
Thermal Neck Gaiter · 2-pack
For cold or windy stops. Confirm fabric, fit and the two-pack variant at the store.
Eye protection
Polarized Cycling Sunglasses
Wrap-around cycling sunglasses with polarized lenses and a lightweight TR90 frame, according to the listing.
Wildlife & night viewing
Hawknite 1 4K Night Vision Binoculars
52MP photo · 1,200m range · full color at night. Check park rules before using lights at night.
$299.99 USD · store price
Shop at WILDGUARDEROptional picks, not a complete packing or safety list. Photos from the ROCKBROS and WILDGUARDER stores. Prices as of 2026-10-19 / 2026-10-20; price, stock and shipping may change.
Quick answers
What is the closest airport to New River Gorge National Park?
Raleigh County Memorial Airport (BKW) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.
How long is the drive from BKW to New River Gorge National Park?
Roughly 53 min (about 25 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.
Do I need a reservation to visit New River Gorge National Park?
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve does not currently require a general entry permit, but specific activities like commercial whitewater rafting and group camping must be booked through official outfitters or the federal reservation system. Check the official NPS site for seasonal facility closures and changes to the Bridge Day access rules.