Adventure Collective Journal

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New River Gorge Zip Line Tour: 9 Zips, Sky Bridges & Gorge Views

New River Gorge Zip Line Tour: 9 Zips, Sky Bridges & Gorge Views

Race across clifflines above the New River Gorge on nine ziplines and two suspension bridges. This guided 3-hour tour combines raw canyon scenery, accessible thrills, and interpretive viewpoints that situate you in the gorge’s geological and cultural story.

Fayetteville, West Virginia
3 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Weight & Age Limits

All participants must weigh between 70–250 lb and be at least 8 years old; confirm accurately when booking.

Shoes & Clothing

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and layers — ridge-top winds can be much cooler than the river below.

Hydration & Timing

Bring a refillable water bottle and choose a morning slot for calmer winds and better light for photos.

Fear of Heights

If you’re nervous, start with observation platforms and short zips; guides will clip you in and talk you through each launch.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Walk the Fayette Station Road overlooks for different viewpoints of the New River Gorge Bridge.
  • Drive a short distance to Babcock State Park for quieter forest trails and the historic Glade Creek Grist Mill.

Wildlife

  • Turkey vultures and red-tailed hawks hunting thermals above the gorge
  • White-tailed deer on forested slopes near trailheads

Conservation Note

The New River Gorge is now a National Park & Preserve that balances recreation with habitat protection; stay on designated trails and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect sandstone benches and riverbanks.

The New River area supported early rail and coal transport; the completion of the New River Gorge Bridge in 1977 dramatically changed access and later helped spur outdoor tourism.

What to Bring

Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential

Provide traction on launch platforms and approaches to zipline towers.

Layered jacketEssential

Protects against canyon wind and changing temperatures on ridge-top platforms.

Small daypack

Holds water, camera, and personal items without interfering with harness fit.

Sunscreen & sunglassesEssential

Sun exposure on open platforms can be intense, especially mid-day.

Common Questions

How long is the tour and how many zips are there?

The guided experience runs about 3 hours and includes nine zip lines and two suspension (sky) bridges.

Is prior ziplining experience required?

No — guides provide instruction and the dual-line system with gravity brakes means no braking by hand is required.

Are there weight and age restrictions?

Yes — riders must weigh between 70 and 250 pounds and be at least 8 years old; specific operators may verify weight at check-in.

What if the weather is bad?

Weather policies vary; tours may be canceled for unsafe conditions. Check cancellation windows and rescheduling options when you book.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

3 hours

Location

Fayetteville, West Virginia

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; must be able to walk short, uneven trails and stand on platforms.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Fayetteville?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

Check Availability & Book Now