Bluestone National Scenic River

The Bluestone River runs free for 10.5 miles through a deep, forested Appalachian gorge with no roads along its banks, sheltering 200 bird species and archaeological sites from Paleo-Indian camps onward. There is no car access into the gorge; visitors arrive on foot or by the aerial tram at Pipestem Resort.

Ride the tram down into the canyon and wade the river shallows. For a challenge, hike the full Bluestone Turnpike Trail, about ten miles one way along the river through the gorge.