About Bridge Walk
Our story, the bridge, and your safety.
How Bridge Walk Began
Founded in 2010, Bridge Walk was created through a unique partnership between the National Park Service, the West Virginia Division of Highways, and Bridge Walk LLC to offer a new way to experience the New River Gorge.
The tour takes place on the bridge's original catwalk, once used only for inspection and maintenance, which Bridge Walk reimagined as a one-of-a-kind public adventure. To make this possible, the team introduced a convenient shuttle system, enhanced trail access, and installed a world-class safety system, including the longest continuous cable system of its kind, keeping guests securely harnessed throughout the entire experience.
Today, Bridge Walk welcomes thousands of visitors each year to explore the New River Gorge Bridge from a rare vantage point—combining breathtaking views, fascinating history, and remarkable engineering into an unforgettable guided walk.
What We Stand For
Safety Above All
Our world class safety system, expert guides, and detailed procedures ensure a worry‑free experience from start to finish.
Stewardship of the Gorge
We honor the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve by promoting responsible recreation and supporting protection of the area.
Education & Discovery
Our guides share stories of engineering, history, and nature, helping guests see the Bridge in a whole new light.
Accessibility & Hospitality
We welcome visitors of all ages and backgrounds with patience, encouragement, and genuine West Virginia hospitality.
Community & Partnership
Bridge Walk connects visitors not only to the New River Gorge, but also to the culture, history, and community that make this place special.
Unforgettable Experiences
We create unforgettable moments from overcoming a fear of heights to taking in the beauty of the Gorge.
Bridge Walk has the longest continuous safety system in the world.
Safety Philosophy & Guidelines
Before beginning any tour, every guest is securely fastened onto a continuous safety cable system — the longest in the world — making it physically impossible to fall from the bridge during a tour.
Participants must be at least 8 years old, at least 48 inches tall, and have a waist size under 52 inches. Guests should be reasonably fit with full body control and coordination, and able to walk approximately 1.5 miles.
The catwalk is 24 inches wide with a substantial railing. All cameras and equipment must be securely strapped to you. Our trained guides prioritize your safety while ensuring an exhilarating experience.
The Bridge Through the Years
Construction Begins
Work starts on the New River Gorge Bridge, an engineering marvel.
Bridge Opens
Completed October 22, 1977 after 3 years and $37 million.
First Bridge Day
November 8, 1980 — originally called 'Bridge Walk.' BASE jumping begins.
First Bridge Walk Tour
September 26, 2010 — guided catwalk tours launched through NPS and WV DOH partnership.
New Safety System
September — Bridge Walk enhances the guest experience through the installation of a new state-of-the-art continuous cable safety system.
The New River Gorge Bridge
An engineering marvel completed in 1977.
The New River Gorge Bridge was designed by the Michael Baker Company and erected by U.S. Steel's American Bridge Division. Construction began in June 1974 and was completed on October 22, 1977. This engineering marvel took three years and cost $37 million.
The bridge spans 3,030 feet across the gorge, 876 feet above the New River, using a single 1,700-foot arch span design. All 22,000 tons of structural steel is COR-TEN Steel, which oxidizes to a dark russet color that blends with the surroundings and eliminates the need for repainting.
Longest single arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere
3rd longest single arch bridge in the world
876 feet above the New River
3,030 feet long, 1,700-foot arch span
Built 1974–1977 for $37 million
22,000 tons of COR-TEN steel
On the West Virginia State quarter
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
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.