From Kentucky to West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, the scenery changes from grassy hills with fenced horse farms to acres of trees, trees and more trees. Once off the interstate, the drive took me through small towns, along the Kanawha River with its locks and dams. A railroad track runs parallel to the river with coal-laden cars. I am alway surprised coal cars are uncovered. Apparently train companies say covered coal cars could combust. I was simply thinking of the particulates flying into the air and wherever they may land. Anyway…

I drove over the New River Gorge Bridge and stopped at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center which has an informative 11 minute film. The bridge is impressive and here’s a photo I took from one viewing platform. I had no energy to walk into the gorge for a different view of the bridge.

This national park and preserve really encompasses a stretch along the New River. I had not realized what a great white-water rafting area with also the neighboring recreational areas and state parks. Apparently in the fall, many river enthusiasts descend on this area for specific river activities.

I loved my campsite at Babcock State Park. It was quiet all hours of the day … where I also convalesced my concussed brain for a day … you may have read about my concussion in a previous blog post. It was sunny, a welcome change compared to the weather on this trip thus far. And the birds were happy too!

Although I missed the old railroad town in this national park, I did drive south of the Sandstone Visitor Center, another 15 minutes south to Sandstone Falls Overlook and an additional half hour to the boardwalk allowing me to see the falls from the river. 

I need to return to Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia some day. Note to self, not when it is tornado season!