We love this place. We moved here because there is so much fun stuff to do outside - enough to keep us busy until we are too old to move. Now that we have been here a while we are even more convinced than ever that there is no better place in America for the outdoor recreation freak than right here at the New River Gorge. Quite a claim isn't it? 

It's All About Density Really...

You ask what is so special about the Gorge. There is lots of great climbing all around the country, same for whitewater, mountain biking and hiking. True, but what we have is a terrific array of world-class resources all in one convenient, friendly, affordable area. You can do it all. Right here. Every day.

A World Renowned Climbing Destination 

The New River Gorge has had a stellar rep as a destination climbing area for over 20 years.  Bullet-hard sandstone, lots of variety and a constantly expanding selection of routes, at both ends of the spectrum, keep this area fresh and happening. The bouldering scene is on fire, with new problems and areas are being developed every month. 

Year Round Whitewater for All Abilities

The whitewater scene offers this same formula of world-class resources for every ability level. Warm water and mild sections make this a beginner's dream while the hair boaters can choose between the Class V of the Upper Gauley and Lower Meadow or a number of steep creeks that only run when the rain falls heavy.

A Wealth of Outdoor Opportunities

Mountain biking, birding, horseback riding, four wheeling - we have it all here and the staff at Water Stone has got the beta.  We can keep you busy until you are too old to move too!

Walk the Crag with a Local

Follow a local New River Gorge climber on a walking tour at the base of one of our World famous rock climbing crags. Get the scoop on the best routes to hit for all different skill levels.

The Bridge Buttress - Mike Williams, the author of the "new" New River Gorge climbing guide book, hosts the first segment of our series. The Bridge Buttress was the first crag to be explored here at the New, and Mike gives some great historical info along with climbing beta.

Fern Buttress - Kenny Parker hosts this segment of Walk the Crag. Being that he lives only a quarter mile from the trail head, I'd say that he is familiar enough with the area to give a tour. Great history and climbing beta in this one about a number of New River Gorge classics.

The Junkyard - New River Mountain Guides owner Elaina Smith hosts the segment at the Junkyard. With a witty sense of humor, Elaina shows off her favorite routes in the area and gives great beta on gear you will need to bring along to tackle some of the classic trad routes.

Ambassador Buttress - Kenny points out some of the best routes at this highly accessible but under used section of cliff line just upstream of the New River Gorge Bridge.
 

The Cirque - Old climbing master Porter Jarrard and Robbie Virostek host this wacky segment at one of the premiere crags at the New. Great beta and history for some of the hardest routes in the area.