Bridge Walk
    Sunset beams through the New River Gorge

    Bridge Walk Frequently Asked Questions

    New River Gorge Bridge Questions

    Find the answers you need about our tours, safety, and planning your visit to New River Gorge.

    Who Can Participate in the Bridge Walk

    Can kids participate in Bridge Walk?
    Yes! Children 8 years and older may participate as long as they are at least 48" tall. Our youngest guest has been 8, and our oldest so far is 97.
    Can seniors walk the catwalk?
    Absolutely. If you can comfortably manage moderate physical activity for 2+ hours and walk about 1¼ miles, you'll likely find the experience accessible and exhilarating.
    Can pregnant women do the Bridge Walk tour?
    Yes, pregnant women are welcome. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before booking to ensure it's the right decision for you.
    Can people with disabilities or medical conditions walk the bridge?

    Yes! Bridge Walk welcomes guests of all abilities. Participation depends on your individual situation.

    You should generally have:

    • A reasonable level of fitness and strength
    • Full body control and coordination
    • The ability to stand independently

    Conditions that may affect your ability to participate safely include:

    • Heart conditions or high blood pressure
    • Respiratory issues
    • Vertigo, dizziness, or balance challenges
    • Visual impairments
    • Recent surgery (within 1 month)
    • Missing limbs or prosthetics, depending on stability
    • Seizures within the past 6 months

    We're dedicated to accessibility, but for safety reasons we may need to modify or decline participation. Please contact us anytime with questions.

    Can people with injuries experience the Bridge Walk?
    It depends on the injury. Broken bones, back issues, or joint/limb pain may affect safe participation. Consult your healthcare provider before booking if you're unsure.
    Are there size or harness requirements?

    Our harnesses fit up to:

    • 53" waist maximum
    • 35" thigh circumference maximum

    Participants MUST be at least 48" tall.

    You must be able to wear the harness properly to participate.

    Reservations, Scheduling & Cancellation Policy

    Should I wait to reserve or book adventures?
    We recommend booking in advance. Tours have limited spots, and booking early ensures we can coordinate logistics and secure your preferred time.
    What if I am late for my trip?

    We cannot delay the group. If you know you'll be late:

    • Call us as soon as possible
    • We'll try to move you to a later trip if space is available
    • Same‑day rainchecks and refunds are not offered
    How many people are on each tour?
    Tours are capped at 13 guests. For larger groups, please call 304.574.1300 for custom accommodations.
    What is the refund policy?
    All reservations are non‑refundable. Guests may request a change to their reservation by calling at least 48 hours in advance of the scheduled tour time. All changes are subject to availability. Late arrivals or failure to appear are considered a no‑show and are not eligible for changes, gift certificates, or refunds. Bridge Walk operates rain or shine. If Bridge Walk cancels a tour due to weather, safety, or operational concerns, guests will be offered the option to reschedule, receive a gift certificate, or obtain a full refund.
    What if the forecast looks bad?
    Bridge Walk operates rain or shine. We closely monitor weather conditions and only cancel tours when conditions are deemed unsafe (such as high winds). If Bridge Walk cancels a tour, guests will have the option to reschedule, receive a gift certificate, or obtain a full refund.
    Can I reschedule instead of canceling?
    Yes. Please contact us at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled tour time to request a change. All changes are subject to availability.
    What if some people in my group can't attend?
    Reductions made at least 48 hours prior to the scheduled tour time will receive a rain check valid for one year. Reductions within 48 hours are not eligible for credit.

    The New River Bridge

    How tall is the New River Gorge Bridge?
    The bridge is 876 feet tall from the deck to the river below. The catwalk sits at 851 feet above the river.
    Where is the New River Gorge Bridge?

    The New River Gorge Bridge is located in Lansing, West Virginia, within the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve in the United States.

    It carries U.S. Route 19 over the New River Gorge, just north of the town of Fayetteville.

    What are some facts about the bridge?
    • Located in Lansing, West Virginia
    • Completed in 1977
    • Total length: 3,030 feet
    • Main span: 1,700 feet (one of the longest steel arch spans in the world)
    • Carries U.S. Route 19 across the New River Gorge
    • Hosts the annual Bridge Day, where the bridge is closed to traffic and open to pedestrians and BASE jumpers
    • Reduced a 40-minute drive through the gorge to about 1 minute across the bridge
    • Features a catwalk 25 feet below the roadway, used for maintenance and guided tours

    Tour Experience

    How long is the tour?

    Tours last 2+ hours, which includes:

    • Check‑in
    • Shuttle to and from the bridge
    • Walking the full span on the catwalk
    What are the conditions like during the Bridge Walk?

    The experience includes:

    • Inclined walking trails and grated decks
    • Over ½ mile on a 24" catwalk
    • A total walking distance of about 1¼ miles
    • High‑exposure panoramic views
    • Uneven surfaces and narrow passageways
    • Exposure to weather (wind, rain, cold, snow, sun)

    Once under the bridge, you're shaded by "West Virginia's biggest umbrella." Dress for changing weather conditions.

    Is it safe?

    Yes. Every guest is:

    • Securely harnessed
    • Attached to a continuous safety cable
    • Guided by trained, experienced staff

    Guests do not have access to clip or unclip themselves from the safety system–only guides.

    Preparing for our Trip

    What should I wear?

    Wear comfortable clothing and secure footwear:

    • No flip flops
    • Sandals must have a heel strap. Closed‑toe shoes are recommended
    Can I take my cell phone, a camera, or binoculars?
    Yes - but they must be securely attached with a strap, harness, or mount. We sell phone lanyards for $6 if you don't have one. The NPS prohibits loose or handheld phones, cameras, and binoculars for safety reasons. Bridge Walk is not responsible for any dropped gear.
    Can I bring glasses or sunglasses?
    Yes. We sell lanyards to keep them secure. The catwalk is shaded, so sunglasses are optional.
    What items are prohibited?

    The following are not allowed on the catwalk:

    • Bags of any kind (purses, backpacks, fanny packs)
    • Food or drinks
    • Chewing gum
    • Tobacco products
    • Weapons (NPS prohibits knives, firearms, etc.)

    Policies & Safety Expectations

    Is alcohol or drug use allowed before the tour?
    No. Bridge Walk enforces a strict zero‑tolerance policy. If staff suspects a guest is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they reserve the right to deny participation for safety reasons. This decision is final.
    What behaviors are prohibited?

    For the safety of all guests:

    • Horseplay
    • Spitting or throwing objects
    • Distracting the guide or others
    • Attempting to remove or damage your harness or detach from the safety line. Guests must remain harnessed and attached to the safety line at all times.

    Guests who may pose a danger to themselves or others will not be permitted to participate.

    New River Gorge Bridge view

    Ready to Step Into Adventure?

    Book your guided Bridge Walk today and experience the New River Gorge from 851 feet above the river - on one of the most unique tours in America.