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Bridge and viewpoint · Fayetteville, West Virginia
New River Gorge Bridge and Canyon Rim
The 1977 steel arch bridge over the New River canyon, seen from the Canyon Rim visitor center, with steps down to an overlook on the slope.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About New River Gorge Bridge and Canyon Rim
The New River Gorge Bridge opened in 1977 and connects the two rims of the canyon about 267 meters above the river. At 924 meters long, it was for decades the longest single-span arch bridge in the world. The structure shortened a crossing that used to take nearly an hour along the winding valley roads to less than a minute.
The Canyon Rim visitor center, on the north rim, has exhibits about the river, coal mining, and the bridge’s construction. From there, a walkway leads to a nearby overlook, and a wooden staircase of about 180 steps descends to another overlook from which you can see the entire arch.
The old Fayette Station Road, one-way, drops to the canyon floor and passes under the bridge via a low river bridge, with several tight curves. It’s one of the best ways to understand the scale of the structure.
On the third Saturday in October, Bridge Day closes the bridge to cars and brings thousands of people to watch parachute jumps and rappelling.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours, including Fayette Station Road.
Best time
Morning, when the light falls on the arch, or late afternoon. In October, the fall foliage frames the bridge.
How to get there
The Canyon Rim visitor center is on US-19, about 3 km from Fayetteville, with parking. Fayette Station Road begins nearby.
Tip
The stairway to the lower overlook is steep on the return. Fayette Station Road is narrow and one-way on parts of the route: drive slowly.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about New River Gorge Bridge and Canyon Rim
How high is the New River Gorge Bridge?
The deck is about 267 meters above the river, and the bridge is 924 meters long.
Where can I see the New River Gorge Bridge?
From the viewpoints at the Canyon Rim visitor center on the north rim, and from Fayette Station Road, which descends to the canyon floor.
When is Bridge Day?
On the third Saturday of October, when the bridge is closed to vehicles and open to pedestrians.