Take The Stomach-Dropping New River Gorge Bridge Walk In West Virginia
West Virginia is without a doubt, a hiker’s paradise. From boardwalk trails to hikes that lead to expansive overlooks, each one is unique. But there is one walk that is the ultimate Mountain State adventure. Experience one-of-a-kind panoramic scenery and an epic adrenaline rush on the New River Gorge Bridge Walk. Hike across the catwalk below the 13th highest bridge in the world for the walk of a lifetime.
The New River Gorge Bridge is a national landmark in engineering. Spanning 3,030 feet, it is the third-longest single-arch bridge in the world! Not only is the bridge long, but it's also high - the 3rd highest in the nation.
On average more than 16,000 vehicles cross this steel wonder every day but many don't realize that you can actually walk below the road's surface and cross the bridge by foot.
25 feet below the bridge is a catwalk that crosses the entire 3,030 feet of the bridge. Bridge Walk offers stomach-dropping, heart-pounding, breathtaking guided tours across this catwalk.
While it might make you weak-in-the-knees to think about taking this hike - it's perfectly safe. The catwalk is two feet wide with railings and you'll be harnessed to a safety cable.
Walk one way across the bridge and then be shuttled back by bus. The tours last 2-3 hours moving along at a leisurely pace so you can enjoy your time high above the gorge.
The scenery is absolutely spectacular and you'll have plenty of time to enjoy the views and take pictures. The guides will also photograph you during your brave crossing so you have proof to go along with bragging rights.
To participate in the New River Gorge Bridge Walk guests must be 48 inches or taller and able to wear the harness which fits a maximum waist of 52″ and leg thigh of 34″ circumference. Learn more by visiting their website or Facebook page.
Address: 57 Fayette Mine Road, Lansing, West Virginia 25862
Have you ever taken this bridge walk? Were you shaking in your boots or did you find it an easy-breezy experience? Let us know in the comments section below!
