
New River Gorge Bridge Catwalk
New River Gorge / Fayetteville, West Virginia
Activity
Guided Bridge Walk / Heights
Distance
0.8 mi round trip
Route
Guided out & back
The adventure
Far above the New River, a steel catwalk runs beneath the enormous New River Gorge Bridge. On a guided Bridge Walk, the river becomes a ribbon below and the bridge’s arch becomes a monumental piece of engineering around you.
Harnessed visitors travel on a managed route with trained staff, learning how the bridge spans the gorge while experiencing the thrill of open air below their feet. This is a height-focused experience rather than a conventional trail.
ONCE YOU’RE THERE
Navigate to the official Bridge Walk check-in location, not the highway shoulder or bridge deck. Staff lead guests to the secured catwalk access. Follow posted signs and stay on the designated public route.
LOCAL INTEL
Reservations and an outfitter-provided safety system are required; follow all age, weight, and weather restrictions.
GOOD TO KNOW
Carry water, check weather and closures before departure, and follow local land-manager instructions.
SAFETY & ACCESS
Avoid unmarked access, unstable slopes, and closed areas; confirm any reservation, permit, or seasonal restriction before travel.
What to expect
- New River Gorge Bridge Catwalk scenery and terrain
- Guided Bridge Walk / Heights experience
- A public visitor or trail access anchor
- Seasonal conditions and local route choices
Good to know
- Arrival
- Navigate to the official Bridge Walk check-in location, not the highway shoulder or bridge deck. Staff lead guests to the secured catwalk access.
- Local intel
- Reservations and an outfitter-provided safety system are required; follow all age, weight, and weather restrictions.
- Safety
- Check the managing agency’s current notices and follow all posted safety rules.
- Fee
- Required: Admission, permit or outfitter fee required; verify current rates.
- Dogs
- not-allowed.
- Season
- Seasonal conditions vary; confirm current operating schedule and closures.
Photos

More adventures nearby

Canyon Rim · New River Gorge, West Virginia
New River Gorge National Park Scenic OverlooksHiking · Easy · ~0 mi away

Fayette Station public river access · New River Gorge, West Virginia
New River Gorge Fayette Station Riverside AdventureHiking · Easy · ~0 mi away

Long Point Trailhead public · New River Gorge, West Virginia
Long Point Trail to New River Gorge BridgeHiking · Moderate · ~1 mi away