2013 Trip Three, NM and VA, April 27

New River and gorge

New River bridge

Today was an easy day. We drove from the east coast of Virginia across to its western terminus with West Virginia on I-64. Virginia still had blooming trees, green grass, and pleasant vistas. Except, of course, for the truck traffic along interstate 81 that brought back fond memories of Pennsylvania.

West Virginia has been hilly with valleys interspersed among the hills. One section of US 60 bills itself as a very twisty, curvy road but after our previous experiences with the Road to Hana, it was a drive in the park. So far the trees in West Virginia seem to be less budded out than in Virginia.

This was a shorter driving day so that we could experience the new River Gorge by Hawks nest State Park. This area has a deep coal mining background. Rail traffic goes along the bottom of the gorge. The bridge is 3000 feet long and it is an 875 foot drop to the river. One day a year they close the bridge and allow foot traffic, rappelling off the bridge, para sail, etc.

We hiked down part of the way to the bottom of the gorge for additional vistas. The area is known for its rafting and rock wall climbing. Once again, we chose not to participate in those activities. Plus once a year people can bungee jump from the bridge.

Ed April 27. 8:30 pm