West Virginia: Lansing, The New River Gorge Bridge Catwalk Adventure Tour - The newest Summer thrill!
Family vacationers to Southern West Virginia will have an extra adventure option in addition to whitewater and rocks - guided catwalk tours under the bridge over the river.
Where else is it possible to raft the river one day, climb and rappel the cliff side the next, and walk under the bridge above the river all in one vacation?
Here’s the scoop. The New River Gorge Bridge Catwalk which spans the entire 3,030 foot length of the bridge has always been part of the under carriage of the structure but has remained on the restricted entry list. But now it is now possible to walk the 24-inch wide catwalk under the famous New River Gorge Bridge on a guided adventure tour.
What’s the big deal? New River Gorge, also known as the “Grand Canyon of the East” making the bridge spanning it more than special and the narrow walkway spans the river at about 850 feet above the water. (Makes me want to say don’t look down.) This unique catwalk tour allows adventurous folks the chance to walk under the highest vehicular bridge in North America and the second-highest single span arch bridge in the world is a truly unique experience.
Begin on the north side. Bridge Walk tours begin at the Canyon Rim Visitor's Center. A short path on the north side of the gorge leads to the bridge where participants enter the catwalk in the midst of the massive iron structure. The tour is one way with transportation provided back to the starting point.
As the tour begins the walkers make their way across the catwalk. Views of the New River Gorge open to reveal continuous cliffs, creeks and waterfalls, and the ever-changing colors of the Gorge. From the catwalk participants will be able to look down 850 feet to Fayette Station Road, and the New River where whitewater rafters come through Fayette station rapid, or watch an occasion train make its way through the winding gorge.
It is sure to be an amazing to walk not just because of the views but also because of the proximity to the actual structure of the iron beams which create the iconic arch that supports Route 19 overhead. Walking on this immense structure will definitely provide perspective and a sense of appreciation for the engineering skills that went into creating the New River Gorge Bridge.
Need to know: Bridge Walk tours use an extensive safety system making it impossible to fall from the catwalk on a guided tour.
Planning details. A Bridge Walk tour cost $69 per person plus tax and is available for anyone willing and able to walk 1.5 miles. Participants must meet the following physical requirements: at least 48" tall, 10 years or older and weighing less than 285 pounds (for safety harness restrictions). Children must walk with a responsible adult. Bridge Walk will be open year round but closed Friday and Saturday of Bridge Day Weekend (third Weekend in October), Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Bonus points: Ask about their sunset tours and the monthly full moon walks in the planning stages for summer.
Make it happen. To make a reservation, call (304) 574-1300 or for more details go to
www.bridgewalk.comFamily Vacation Planning Details. For additional family vacation ideas and information in Southern West Virginia call toll-free at 1-800-847-4898, (304) 252-2244 or go to
www.visitwv.comContent researched and written by FTF staff. Images provided by Southern West Virginia Tourism. Copyright 2011.
