Oak Hill, West Virginia, is an inviting base for exploring the New River Gorge’s hiking, biking, and paddling adventures. With scenic trails, river access, and nearby protected lands, it’s perfect for outdoor lovers year-round.
Oak Hill, West Virginia, is an inviting base for exploring the New River Gorge’s hiking, biking, and paddling adventures. With scenic trails, river access, and nearby protected lands, it’s perfect for outdoor lovers year-round.
Outdoor Adventure in Oak Hill, West Virginia
Oak Hill serves as an ideal launching point for exploring the vast New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, offering year-round outdoor activities for adventure travelers.
Discover the unique natural wonders, summits, and scenic landmarks that make Oak Hill, West Virginia special.
★ 8.3⌖ 2.78 milesExplore Finn's Falls near Thurmond, WV, where you can enjoy serene hikes, swimming, and picnicking. The waterfall setting offers a peaceful escape and excellent photography opportunities. Best visited in spring or fall, this spot is easily accessible yet offers quiet solitude.
★ 8.2⌖ 3.44 milesExplore the trails at Wolf Creek Park Trailhead near Fayetteville, WV. Known for mountain biking with diverse routes from easy to challenging. Stunning views of the New River Gorge nearby. Adventure seekers will find scenic and exhilarating paths.
★ 6.5⌖ 3.84 milesExplore the Rend Trail in Thurmond, WV. This 3.5-mile trail, with moderate elevation changes, is great for trail running and offers scenic overlooks of New River Gorge. Experience quiet runs amidst rich Appalachian history, best visited in spring or fall.
★ 7.2⌖ 5.11 milesEasyExplore the Southside Junction Trail, a 14-mile round-trip trail in Fayetteville, WV. This easy biking route offers stunning river views and historical sights along the New River. Ideal for family-friendly rides, especially in spring and fall.
★ 7.8⌖ 5.98 milesExplore Arrowhead Bike Farm in Fayetteville, WV, offering mountain biking trails and camping. Proximity to New River Gorge adds options for rock climbing and whitewater rafting. Spring and fall provide ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
★ 8.5⌖ 6.15 milesModerateExperience a 3.2-mile round-trip hike leading to breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge at Long Point Trailhead near Fayetteville, WV. This moderate trail, best visited in fall, is great for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
★ 8⌖ 6.31 milesHardExplore the challenging 5-mile Timber Ridge Trail in New River Gorge. With steep climbs, thrilling descents, and scenic vistas, it's perfect for skilled mountain bikers seeking adventure. Best enjoyed in spring and fall. Look out for wildlife including hawks and deer.
★ 7.8⌖ 6.36 milesModerateExplore the 3.5-mile Brooklyn Mine Trail near Fayetteville, WV. The moderate trail features historical mining ruins and scenic descents through lush forests. Ideal for mountain bikers seeking adventure and history in a quieter setting.
★ 7.2⌖ 6.49 milesExplore the Arrowhead Trails in New River Gorge for a thrilling mountain biking adventure. With over 13 miles of trails ranging from beginner to advanced, this drive-in location near Fayetteville, WV, offers beautiful forest landscapes. Best enjoyed in spring or fall.
⌖ 6.55 milesHardExplore Kaymoor Trail Head in Fayetteville, WV, known for its steep trail with over 800 steps leading to historic mining remnants. Perfect for adventure seekers and photographers, it's best visited in spring and fall.
★ 8.2⌖ 6.57 milesEasyExplore the 3.5-mile Fayetteville Park Loop in New River Gorge, West Virginia. An easy trail with scenic overlooks, it's perfect for trail running. Enjoy serene views and local amenities along the way.
★ 7.5⌖ 6.69 milesHardExplore the 1.6-mile Kaymoor Miners Trail in New River Gorge, known for its steep terrain and historical sites including a historic coal mine. This hard hike is favored by adventure seekers, especially in spring and fall.
Discover the top adventure activities and curated experiences in Oak Hill, West Virginia, verified by our editors to help you make the most of your trip.
Book unforgettable outdoor adventures, guided tours, and gear rentals with verified Local Experts in Oak Hill, West Virginia.
⌖ 4.9 miA one- to seven-night stay on the banks of the New River—this guide explains the cottage, the riverside deck, and the short walk into Thurmond's restored railroad town.
⌖ 8.4 miA two-day, 26-mile overnight float-fishing trip near Lansing that averages about six hours on the water each day — this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 8.4 miA two-day, 26-mile overnight run on the New River that pairs a relaxed upper-day with a second day of Class 3–5 whitewater—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 8.4 miA concise, one-bedroom primitive lodging on the New River in historic Thurmond—this guide lays out what to expect, where it sits, and the essential logistics for a short stay.
⌖ 12.9 miAn all-day, 9-hour raft trip tackling Class III–V whitewater on the Gauley River with a catered lunch and extended Lower Gauley section—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 12.9 miA 6-hour guided day trip on the Upper New River for ages 5 and up, featuring Class I–II rapids, private rafts with an experienced guide, and a catered riverside lunch.
⌖ 12.9 miA four-hour afternoon express rafting trip on the New River Gorge with guided Class III/IV whitewater and scenic passage ending beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge.
⌖ 12.9 miA six-hour guided rafting day trip out of Hico that runs Class III/IV whitewater, includes a catered riverside lunch, and is ideal for anyone 11 and older planning a single-day river adventure.
⌖ 12.9 miA 4-hour afternoon, family-friendly rafting trip on the Upper New River (ages 5+), featuring gentle Class I–II rapids, swimming stops, and a personal guide.
⌖ 13.5 miA customizable, private day trip for groups of six or more that pairs expert guides and catered lunch with National Park scenery—this guide explains what to expect and how the operator outfits your group.
⌖ 13.6 miA guided, full-day Upper Gauley rafting run from Beckley that pairs Class IV/V whitewater and an on-river catered lunch — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
⌖ 15.9 miA compact guide to staying in the Meadow River glamping tent — riverside lodging with a double bed, outdoor deck and private facilities, plus direct access to the Meadow River Rail Trail.
⌖ 15.9 miRiverside campsites on the Meadow River with direct access to the Meadow River Rail Trail, whitewater options nearby and Summersville Lake just 11 miles away — this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.
⌖ 16.1 miA focused, 4–6 hour rafting run out of Lansing that prioritizes nonstop whitewater; this guide explains what to expect, what to bring, and how the trip runs.
⌖ 17.1 miA two‑day whitewater rafting adventure on the Upper Gauley that delivers continuous Class V rapids and a 14‑foot drop at Sweet’s Falls—essential reading for anyone booking the Double Upper Gauley.
Make the most of your visit to Oak Hill, West Virginia with these essential planning tips, seasonal events, and protected lands.
Oak Hill, West Virginia hosts celebrated events throughout the year showcasing the region's culture, outdoor lifestyle, and community spirit.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Oak Hill, West Virginia during the iconic New River Gorge Trail Runs. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Oak Hill, West Virginia during the iconic New River Festival. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Experience the vibrancy and unique outdoor heritage of Oak Hill, West Virginia during the iconic Oak Hill Archery Classic. Plan accommodations and permits early.
Oak Hill, West Virginia is surrounded by incredible protected natural lands offering pristine trails, wildlife habitats, and wilderness conservation.
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia offers stunning cliffside views, a rich history in coal mining, and world-renowned opportunities for rock climbing and white-water rafting.
Breaks Interstate Park, often called the 'Grand Canyon of the South', is a unique cooperative effort between the states of Kentucky and Virginia, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventures.
Mount Rogers National Recreation Area offers a diverse range of activities amidst the highest peak in Virginia, known for its stunning landscapes and unique ecological features.
Monongahela National Forest offers diverse ecosystems and abundant recreational opportunities in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia.
Arrange lodging in Oak Hill for easy access to New River Gorge and surrounding trails.
Spring offers wildflowers and pleasant weather; fall provides colorful foliage and crisp air.
Check river conditions before paddling seasons—it varies with rainfall and releases from upstream reservoirs.
Always check local regulations, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and weather forecasts before setting out on any adventure in Oak Hill, West Virginia. Respect nature, wildlife, and fellow adventurers by following Leave No Trace principles.