Bluestone National Scenic River

National Park Service, West Virginia.

The Bluestone River and the rugged and ancient gorge it has carved is a richly diverse and scenic area of the southern Appalachians. Bluestone National Scenic River is preserved as a living landscape that provides an unspoiled experience for visitors and a haven for a variety of plants and animals. The park protects a 10.5-mile section of the Bluestone River in southern West Virginia.

Nearby Activities

  • Biking
  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Hunting
  • Paddling
  • Wildlife Viewing

Directions

Bluestone National Scenic River is most easily accessed via Bluestone State Park and Pipestem Resort State Park. A narrow, graveled park road provides access to the Bluestone Turnpike Trail at the former Lilly town site at the confluence of the Little Bluestone River. To reach these parks from I-64, take exit 139, then south on Rt. 20. From I-77 take exit 14 to Rt.20 north. Either direction, Bluestone State Park is 15 miles and Pipestem is 22 miles.

Additional Information

  • Bluestone National Scenic River Official Website
  • Bluestone National Scenic River Map

Photo Gallery

  • The Turnpike TrailThe ten mile Turnpike Trail parallels the Bluestone, connecting Pipestem Resort State Park and Bluestone State Park.
  • Leading a hikeRanger Richard leads a guided walk on the Turnpike Trail
  • Enjoying the dayA young hiker makes his own connection with Bluestone National Scenic River.
  • Bluestone RiverBluestone National Scenic River offers a quiet getaway.
  • Bluestone Turnpike TrailNPS Ranger Richard Altaire provides an overview of the park map to a visitor to the Bluestone NSR.

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