10 Best Things to Do in Fayetteville, West Virginia

Planning a trip to the Mountain State? Fayetteville, West Virginia, effortlessly combines natural beauty, rich history, and thrilling outdoor adventures. Tim and I visited in fall 2024, and the trip was especially meaningful because of my personal family connection to nearby Thurmond, a historic railroad town. Walking through its quiet streets, where my grandma and great-grandma once lived, gave me a deep sense of connection to my roots.

Fayetteville serves as the perfect gateway to exploring New River Gorge National Park and the best of West Virginia. Whether you’re here for the iconic bridge, adrenaline-pumping activities, or just to take in the scenic beauty, here are the best things to do in Fayetteville.

---

10 Best Things to Do in Fayetteville, West Virginia

1. New River Gorge Bridge & Visitor Center

The New River Gorge Bridge is Fayetteville’s crown jewel and a must-see landmark. At 876 feet above the New River, it’s one of the world’s longest single-arch bridges. Start at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, where you can learn about the bridge’s history and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.

 >>> Buy your National Parks Pass from REI here

If you’re visiting in October, don’t miss Bridge Day, when the bridge transforms into a festival with BASE jumping, rappelling, and craft vendors. For a unique perspective, take the Bridge Walk, a guided tour along the catwalk beneath the bridge, offering a thrilling view of the gorge from above.

---

2. Whitewater Rafting on the New River

The New River is a whitewater rafting paradise, offering rapids for all skill levels. ACE Adventure Resort and Adventures on the Gorge provide guided trips that mix exhilarating rapids with serene stretches perfect for taking in the scenery.

Tim and I rafted the Lower New River, which was the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or a first-timer, this is an unforgettable experience. Here is the exact tour we did.

---

3. Hiking in New River Gorge National Park

The New River Gorge area is packed with stunning trails. Here are a few more options to add to your hiking list:

• Endless Wall Trail: A 2.4-mile loop with jaw-dropping views of the gorge from numerous overlooks.

• Long Point Trail: A moderate 3.2-mile round-trip hike to a picture-perfect viewpoint of the New River Gorge Bridge.

• Kaymoor Miners Trail: A steep but rewarding 1.5 mile hike that takes you past remnants of a historic coal mine and offers interpretive signs about the area’s industrial past.
• Castle Rock Trail: A short but dramatic trail showcasing towering sandstone cliffs.

---

4. Fayette Station Road: A Scenic Drive Through History

Fayette Station Road offers one of the most scenic drives in New River Gorge National Park. This winding route descends into the gorge, crossing the river on a historic bridge before looping back up the other side. Along the way, you’ll pass old mining remnants, lush forests, and stunning river views.

Be sure to download the NPS app and listen to the free audio tour of Fayette Station Road. Timed perfectly to match your pace, the narration provides fascinating insights into the area’s history and geology.

This is a must-do at sunset for golden hour views of the gorge and New River Gorge Bridge.

---

5. Catch Sunrise and Sunset at the Best Spots

Watching sunrise and sunset over the New River Gorge is a must-do when in Fayetteville!

Best Sunrise Spots:

• Endless Wall Trail: The overlooks on this trail are magical in the soft morning light, often with fog rolling through the gorge.
• Diamond Point: The serene quiet of this overlook makes it a perfect sunrise location.

Best Sunset Spots:

• Long Point Trail: The sweeping views of the New River Gorge Bridge make this a stunning place to watch the sun dip below the horizon.
• Fayette Station Road: Golden hour light transforms the gorge into a vibrant tapestry of colors.
• Canyon Rim Overlook: Easily accessible, this viewpoint near the Visitor Center is perfect for a quick but spectacular sunset stop.

---

6. Explore Historic Thurmond

Just a short drive from Fayetteville, Thurmond is a preserved ghost town that offers a fascinating glimpse into West Virginia’s past. Once a thriving railroad hub, it’s now part of the National Park Service.

This stop was particularly meaningful for me since my grandma and great-grandma lived here. Walking through Thurmond’s quiet streets and seeing the preserved structures made me feel connected to my family’s history.

---

Download the free NPS audio tour for an enriching look at Thurmond’s golden era, when it was bustling with trains and coal miners.

---

7. Visit the Glade Creek Grist Mill at Babcock State Park

This postcard-worthy mill is one of West Virginia’s most photographed spots. Surrounded by vibrant fall foliage or lush greenery in summer, it’s a perfect place to pause and take in the scenery. The mill also marks the start of the West Virginia Waterfall Trail, making it an ideal stop for waterfall enthusiasts.

---

8. Chase Waterfalls Along the West Virginia Waterfall Trail

• Cathedral Falls: Easily accessible and especially impressive after rain.
• Mill Creek Falls: A hidden gem in Hawks Nest State Park, surrounded by a peaceful forest.
• Kanawha Falls: A wide cascade along the Kanawha River, offering a different vibe from other waterfalls.

---

9. Dine at Local Favorites

Fayetteville’s dining scene is small but mighty, with plenty of delicious options to refuel after a day of adventure.

• Tudor’s Biscuit World: Start your morning with a hearty, oversized biscuit.
• Secret Sandwich Society: Creative sandwiches and unforgettable pimento cheese fries.
• Pies and Pints: Gourmet pizza and a rotating selection of craft beers.
• Range Finder Coffee: Delicious coffee and pastries in a homey cafe.

---

10. Rock Climbing in the New River Gorge

Fayetteville is a rock climber’s paradise, boasting some of the best climbing routes in the country. The sandstone cliffs of the New River Gorge offer routes for all skill levels, from beginner-friendly climbs to technical challenges that attract experienced climbers from around the world.

Best Climbing Areas

• Endless Wall: Often considered one of the best climbing areas in the U.S., this section offers incredible views and a mix of sport and trad climbing routes. Climbers love the diversity here, with routes ranging from 5.8 to 5.14.
• Kaymoor Slabs: Ideal for beginners and those looking to sharpen their skills, this area features a variety of accessible sport climbing routes.
• Butcher Branch: Known for its short, steep climbs, this crag is perfect for sport climbers.
• Summersville Lake: Just a short drive from Fayetteville, this area offers a unique mix of climbing and water access, including deep-water soloing during the summer months.

Guided Climbing Services

If you’re new to climbing or want to explore the best spots with a local expert, several outfitters in Fayetteville offer guided climbing trips:

• Hard Rock Climbing Services: A highly-rated local guide service offering custom trips for beginners and advanced climbers.
• Adventures on the Gorge: Known for its variety of outdoor activities, this outfitter also offers guided climbing experiences.

---

Getting to West Virginia

Flying to West Virginia

For our fall weekend trip, we flew into and out of Charleston, West Virginia. Charleston Yeager Airport (CRW) is technically an international airport, but it has a small, welcoming feel. As we descended, we were greeted with stunning views of dense forests blanketing the rolling mountains. The airport’s manageable size made navigation a breeze, and we were immersed in West Virginia’s natural beauty shortly after landing.

Renting a Car

To fully enjoy your trip, renting a car is essential. West Virginia’s picturesque small towns and scenic attractions are easiest to reach by car, with many of the best hiking trails and viewpoints located along gravel roads or winding highways. We suggest reserving your rental car ahead of time, especially during the busy fall season when visitor demand is high.

Where to Stay in Fayetteville

For a base that’s both scenic and full of charm, we recommend staying in the heart of Fayetteville, dubbed one of America’s coolest small towns. Fayetteville offers a mix of cozy accommodations and has plenty of local spots to eat and unwind. The town’s close proximity to New River Gorge National Park makes it ideal for hiking, scenic drives, and exploring West Virginia’s iconic landscapes.

Nearby Oak Hill is even smaller but has some solid options for those looking for a quieter spot that’s still close to New River Gorge. It’s a bit more low-key than Fayetteville, so if you prefer more peace and quiet, Oak Hill is worth checking out.

Adventure Resorts

For those wanting to add a little more adventure to their stay, West Virginia is home to several “adventure resorts,” where you can try everything from whitewater rafting to ziplining. We stayed at ACE Adventure Resort, which offers everything you need for an action-packed, if rustic, experience. They provide accommodations, outdoor activities, and on-site dining options, all surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

When to Visit West Virginia

We absolutely loved experiencing West Virginia in the fall! If you enjoy leaf-peeping and crisp, cool weather for hiking, it’s the perfect time to visit. Peak foliage typically occurs between late September and mid-to-late October, when the forests burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. For a truly unforgettable fall trip, plan your visit for the third weekend in October to catch the iconic Bridge Day Festival at New River Gorge National Park.

Adrenaline seekers will also love fall for its whitewater rafting opportunities on the Gauley River. Known as “Gauley Season,” this time of year offers the best conditions for tackling one of the country’s most thrilling rafting routes.

Spring is another fantastic time to visit, with blooming wildflowers and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. It’s also the ideal season for waterfall hunting, as spots like Cathedral Falls are at their most dramatic after spring rains or snowmelt.

Summer in West Virginia brings warm weather, making it perfect for mountain hikes and cooling off with water activities on the New River.

Winter offers a completely different vibe, with snowy landscapes setting the scene for snowmobiling, skiing, or cozying up for a quiet getaway. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, West Virginia is a year-round destination!

Tips for Visiting West Virginia

• Limited Cell Service: Cell reception can be spotty in many parts of West Virginia, especially in and around New River Gorge National Park. Be sure to download maps or guides ahead of time and carry a paper map as a backup.
• Gravel Roads: West Virginia’s scenic backroads and some trailhead access routes are often unpaved. While generally navigable, they can be rough, so drive cautiously and consider renting a vehicle that can handle uneven terrain. Our rental—a small Mercedes-Benz sedan—wasn’t exactly ideal for gravel roads, and while it managed, we now understand why it wasn’t the most popular choice!
• Dress in Layers: The weather in West Virginia can be unpredictable, particularly in the fall. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while midday temperatures are often warmer. Packing layers will help you stay comfortable throughout the day.
• Wildlife Awareness: West Virginia is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, bison, and other larger animals. Always respect their space, especially in areas where wildlife viewing is common, and remember to keep a safe distance.

Final Thoughts

Fayetteville is a gateway to the best of West Virginia, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and outdoor adventure. From the iconic New River Gorge Bridge to peaceful mornings at sunrise overlooks, this town is truly “Almost Heaven.”

Tim and I left feeling inspired and connected—not just to the state’s beauty, but to my own family’s history. I hope you’ll find your own slice of heaven here, too.

More West Virginia Guides

• 3 Day West Virginia Itinerary