The New River Gorge National River protects the New River Gorge in southern West Virginia. Established in 1978, the NPS-protected area stretches for 53 miles (85 km) from just downstream of Hinton to Hawks Nest State Park near Ansted. The park encompasses over 72,808 acres (295 km2) of land along 53 miles (85 km) of the New River from Bluestone Dam to Hawks Nest State Park.

New River Gorge National River has extraordinary scenic resources and views accessible to visitors from the river, rocky overlooks, trails, and rural roads throughout the park. Many open ledges along the rim of the gorge offer popular views, with favorites including Hawks Nest State Park and nearby scenic areas include Babcock State Park, Cathedral Falls, Grandview, and Sandstone Falls.