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West Virginia Nature|On The Water

The Sapphire River In West Virginia That's Devastatingly Gorgeous

By Geoff Foster | Published May 31, 2018

West Virginia has many rivers and tributaries, but this is one is arguably the most beautiful.

Along a gorge running though the wilds of West Virginia is the New River, its path like a blue ribbon between green hills.

The ancient tributary begins in North Carolina and ends in West Virginia where it connects with the Gauley River and becomes the Kanawha River.

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Considered by several geologists to be the oldest river in the world, the New River has flowed along its current course for roughly 65 million years. It used to be much longer, but was buried during the Pleistocene Epoch when giant glacial sheets slid down from the north.

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Today, its sapphire waters still shine bright and the River is enjoyed in many ways. The New River Gorge Bridge passes over one section near Fayetteville, and many sections are excellent for white water rafting, canoeing and kayaking. Several protected parks and recreation areas are found along its path.

Are you familiar with the New River? What portions have you visited? Feel free to comment below and join the discussion.

One great way to view the New river is along this trail.

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