Get Active in the Park: Your Gateway to Health and Wellness in the New River Gorge
Nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve offers an incredible backdrop for an active lifestyle. Through the Get Active in the Park initiative—a unique partnership between the National Park Service and Active Southern West Virginia—local residents and visitors are invited to embrace the outdoors as a space for health, wellness, and community connection.
Led by trained Community Captains, this program delivers free, beginner-level instructional activities that encourage everyone, regardless of fitness level, to get moving. From hiking and biking to running and yoga, the New River Gorge becomes not only a place of awe-inspiring beauty but also a living playground where you can stay healthy, active, and connected to nature.
The Benefits of a National Park in Our Backyard
Living so close to a national park is an incredible gift, one that we sometimes take for granted. Having the New River Gorge right in our backyard means that opportunities for adventure and wellness are just a short drive away. It’s not only a place for visitors to explore, but for locals to reclaim as their own. With programs like Get Active in the Park, residents can discover the trails, rivers, and rock formations of the Gorge in a supportive, welcoming environment.
Spending time in a national park offers countless benefits. Beyond the sheer joy of being surrounded by nature’s beauty, outdoor activities improve mental health, reduce stress, and increase physical fitness. Studies show that time spent in nature can boost mood, improve focus, and even strengthen our immune systems. By getting active in the park, you’re not just investing in your body but also in your overall well-being.
Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Get Outside
Fall is, without a doubt, one of the best times to explore the New River Gorge. With crisp, cool air and breathtaking foliage, it’s the ideal season to be outdoors. The changing leaves create a vibrant backdrop, and the milder temperatures make it comfortable to participate in activities like hiking, biking, or running. You don’t have to be an experienced adventurer to enjoy the Gorge—fall’s slower pace is perfect for beginners looking to ease into outdoor fitness.
There’s something magical about taking a walk through the forest as the leaves crunch beneath your feet, or biking along a scenic trail surrounded by golden trees. Fall offers a calm and peaceful energy, perfect for clearing your mind and reconnecting with the world around you.
Embrace the Outdoors for Your Health
The New River Gorge isn’t just a park—it’s a space for you to thrive. Programs like Get Active in the Park help break down barriers to physical activity, making it easier than ever to explore new forms of fitness in a beautiful, natural setting. With the guidance of dedicated community captains, you can feel confident and supported as you embark on your outdoor journey.
So why not take advantage of this incredible resource in our own backyard? Whether you’re lacing up your hiking boots, hopping on your bike, or simply enjoying the fresh autumn air, the New River Gorge offers countless ways to improve your health and well-being this fall. Get out there, get active, and discover the transformative power of nature!
See our website calendar for a list of all free activities offered by our trained Community Captain Volunteers.
Click here to sign-up for your free membership to participate in activities.
