Guided Activities

stand up paddle boarders on the river — Participants learn about stand up paddle boarding on a Get Active in the Park event.

Join a ranger or park partner for free hikes, talks, and activities. These guided activities provide an opportunity to learn about the natural world around us, experience our rich cultural history, try something new, or just explore a new part of your national parks.

Throughout the year groups may arrange programs as staffing permits. Please call or email the park if you would like a park ranger to present a program for your group.

Things to know:

All programs are beginner level and low impact.
All programs are FREE unless otherwise noted.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes for all hikes.
Water, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera are useful tools to bring along.
All activities follow Leave No Trace Outdoor Ethics.
Terrain may be uneven.
Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
All equipment will be provided.

Upcoming Activities:


July
Date/Time	Activity	Description	Location
Saturday, July 3, 2021 1:00 PM	Tree ID Hike at Burnwood	Hike the Burnwood trail with a ranger to sharpen your tree identification skills and discover the unique characteristics of old growth forests. Prepare for 1.2 miles of moderate walking with comfortable footwear and plenty of water.	Meet at Burnwood Loop Trailhead
Saturday, July 3, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Sunday, July 4, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Saturday, July 10, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Sunday July 11, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Tuesday, July 17, 2021 3:00-5:00 PM	Camp Brookside Stand Up Paddle Board (Get Active in the Park Partner Program)	Stand Up Paddle-boarding (SUP) is a great way to experience the park and get exercise! We'll provide the instruction and the equipment, just come ready for an adventure and to possibly get wet! *Reservations required!* Please reserve your spot by emailing getactiveinthepark@gmail.com	Camp Brookside Environmental Education Center
Saturday, July 17, 2021 11:00	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Sunday, July 18, 2021 11:00	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Saturday, July 24, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Sunday, July 25, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
Saturday, July 31, 2021 11:00 AM	Thurmond Walk	What was life like in one of the New River Gorge’s most renowned towns? Meet a ranger in Thurmond’s historic district for an informal tour of this once bustling railroad town, hearing stories of days gone by.	Meet at Thurmond Depot
For all Get Active in the Park events: Participants will be asked to sign an online waiver. Before arriving at the event check out www.activeswv.org/events for more information.
Get Active in the Park is an innovative partnership between the National Park Service and Active Southern West Virginia. Trained Community Captains deliver free, beginner-level instructional programs to the New River Gorge region. Get Active in the Park empowers our community to see outdoor spaces as a place for health and wellness to take place. For more information about any of our Get Active in the Park Partner Programs, call 304-894-2129 or email getactiveinthepark@gmail.com Check out the Event Calendar for more information and directions to the meeting locations.