Thriving Rapids and National Recognition Transform New River Gorge

In West Virginia, as the coal industry's impact has waned, the powerful currents of the New River Gorge are energizing the area's revival.

Larry Nibert, whose family tree is rich with coal mining history, connects with the river daily as a guide. Everywhere he turns, memories of his ancestors linger.

“I'm filled with immense pride,” Nibert expressed. “For three generations, my family mined coal, and I almost followed that path. I was so close to entering the mines myself.”

The coal industry once thrived here but has significantly shrunk as natural gas became a cheaper energy source. Yet, a fresh wave of optimism now flows through the area.

Eve West, a long-time park employee, recalls when the last coal mine closed around the early 1960s. It coincided with the birth of the local whitewater sector.

West recounts a pivotal shift in 2020: “When the Gorge received its national park designation, everything changed for us. Compared to five years ago, we've seen an increase of about 40% in visitors.”

Beyond the exhilarating rafting experience, the gorge invites enthusiasts for rock climbing, mountain biking, and zip lining. It uniquely hosts bridge base jumping annually, a rarity in national parks.

With its national park status, local job opportunities and economic contributions have surged, pumping $86 million into the region in 2023, as noted by the National Park Service.

West is optimistic about the future: “It’s a testament to resilience. Sometimes, a shift in perspective reveals new prospects.”