Fall/Winter 2011

There’s no time like the fall to visit New River Gorge National River Park in West Virginia. Of course, whitewater rafting is the major draw, and ziplining offers an ethereal experience when the leaves change colors. Hiking along the more than 6,000 acres of trail will impress visitors, too, but those wishing to really rough it will enjoy overnight horseback riding, which incorporates sightseeing and primitive camping for a true family-bonding experience.  
One of the few area outfitters to offer overnight trips, New River Trail Rides in Oak Hill, West Virginia, leads an exceptional ride through the picturesque forest. Guides will lead groups — ages ten and up — out at noon, stopping at the Concho Overlook as well as abandoned railroad town of Thurmond (listed on Travel + Leisure’s list of “America’s Coolest Ghost Towns,” with a population of just six residents). The first day of the tour includes five or six hours in the western saddle.
Riding once more through the forest’s foliage, riders eventually reach another scenic treasure — a waterfall at Arbuckle Falls, where riders can rest before heading out once more. Trotting down the mountain to New River, riders will find tents and are treated to a dinner of steak and potatoes. But not to worry — vegetarians will be taken care of, too. After a good night’s sleep, the guides are at it again, cooking a hearty breakfast in preparation for the two-hour trip back to the stables.
Overnight rides end for the year in the second weekend in October, at the conclusion of what is called “Gauley Season” — a six-week period when Summersville Dam is released, creating class-5 rapids for advanced whitewater rafters.

- State - West Virginia

- Type - Outdoor Adventures

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