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Posts Tagged ‘Bridge Day’

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Secrets to Having the Best Bridge Day in the History of the Earth

Tuesday, September 20th, 2011

Bridge Day is one of the coolest events out there (and yes, we’re biased). But where else are you going to be able to hang out with thousands of people on one of the world’s largest structures and take in some of the most beautiful scenery and craziest people on the planet?

With more food than a fair and vendors selling everything from New River Pet Rocks to hand knit wool socks, Bridge Day is a unique event that showcases our wonderful fall scenery and our very own engineering marvel.

Here are some of the secrets to making your Bridge Day the best Bridge Day ever.

Family Fun on Bridge Day

Lodging 

Choosing where to stay can make a huge difference in how you’ll access the bridge. There are many options that are in close proximity to the Bridge and require either a short walk or shuttle ride to get to the event. Close options are:

Planning

The best way to make the most of the day is to plan, plan, plan. Take a look at the Schedule of Events to help you figure out how to take advantage of all of the activities taking place. Allowing yourself extra time to travel and planning for all the activities in advance is key to having the best Bridge Day in history.

After the Bridge

In order to get traffic moving again and clean up after the fun, the Bridge will start being cleared at 3:00 pm. But that doesn’t mean the fun is over.

There is a car show at the Quality Inn until 4:00 pm.  In downtown Fayetteville, you can check out the Mountain State Cornhole Tournament, Chili and Cornbread Cook-off and live music by local bands.  There’s free parking in Fayetteville for these events, so you should have no problem getting around.  If you opt to walk into Fayetteville from the Bridge, you’ll be able to catch a free shuttle from there to all of the designated Bridge Day shuttle parking lots until 7:00 pm.

And many of the local bars, restaurants and outfitters also have live music to take you late into the night.

Bridge Day Possibilities

Here’s an example of what an ideal Bridge Day Itinerary might look like:

  • Taste of Bridge Day- Adventures on the Gorge Friday, October 14, 5-9pm.
  • Pancake Breakfast – 7:30am at the American Legion Fayetteville.
  • Fayetteville Farmers Market – 8:30am
  • On the Bridge – 9:00am. Walk across bridge, see jumpers, visit vendors, and take in scenery.
  • Shuttle to the Bottom -12:30pm. Go check out the event from a entirely different perspective.
  • Car show – 3:00 pm Quality Inn
  • Downtown Fayetteville – 4-6:30pm Music, food, and fun.
  • Live Band, The Wild Rumpus – 8:00pm Rendezvous Lodge, Adventures on the Gorge

 

This is just one way to spend your Bridge Day. No matter what you want to do, remember to plan as early as you can for lodging and shuttles.

What is your idea of the best Bridge Day ever?

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Rafting on Bridge Day; Or, How to Get Up Close and Personal With B.A.S.E. Jumpers

Wednesday, September 14th, 2011

As you know, Bridge Day is a very unique festival. It brings together extreme crowds and extreme thrill seekers in an electric atmosphere.

But there’s another way to experience Bridge Day: on the river.

Why Raft?

Rafting the Lower New River on Bridge Day is a great way to enjoy the event. Most whitewater rafting companies offer packages that allow you to raft and spend time underneath bridge watching the base jumpers, up close and personal. Watching the jumpers from water level is a whole different experience than watching from the bridge.

Why?  Well, would you be more excited about a herd of bulls running at you or away from you?  Exactly.

From bridge level, the jumpers hurl themselves off the platform and as they fall away they get smaller and smaller, and if their parachute doesn’t open instantly, you get little sense of the gravity (no pun intended) of the situation.

This could be your view

Jumpers Up Close and Personal

But from the water, you have a better perspective of just how little time jumpers have left for their chute to open as they accelerate towards you.

You get to see just how hard it is to have a good landing, especially on a rocky riverbank. You can watch their faces as they realize they are destined for a splash landing and a rescue by the safety boats that are positioned to quickly pluck not-so-lucky jumpers from the water. Maybe they get caught up in the trees above your head. Or maybe Elvis lands in your pot of chili (true story).

Lower New Fall Colors

But you also get some adventure in your day as you navigate the rapids of the Lower New River. The fall colors are usually in full swing, making this one of the most wonderful times to experience the Gorge. And there’s a good chance you’ll be offered a discounted rafting trip on the Gauley River as part of a Bridge Day weekend package.

So lets review why rafting on Bridge Day is a good idea:

  • Different, and in some opinions, better perspective to watch base jumpers.
  • Scenic time to whitewater raft .
  • Possibility of discounted Gauley trip the next day.

 

So if you love Bridge Day but want to mix it up this year, a quick run down the Lower New River with some added action at the end may be just what you’re looking for. It is a wonderful way to spend a fall Saturday in WV.

Have you rafted on Bridge Day?

 

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And the Poster Contest Winner Is…..

Monday, September 12th, 2011

Drumroll please…

The Winning Poster

Congratulations to Ginger Danz, our 2011 Bridge Day Poster Contest Winner!

Look for Ginger’s poster at Bridge Day on October 15; you’ll be able to purchase your copy there.

And a big thank you to all of our entrants and voters.  See you on the Bridge!

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Where to Camp Around the New River Gorge Bridge

Thursday, August 25th, 2011

Bridge Day is known for its base jumpers, plethora of vendors and spectacular view of fall colors. It’s also the largest one-day festival in West Virginia.  And you know what that means – lots of cars and traffic.

Parking and shuttles, walking, and dodging other visitors are all part of the day. But if you want to limit your time in traffic, plan to stay somewhere close to the Bridge. Camping is a good option to get you close to the event.

There are plenty of campsites in the area, but you should go ahead and make your lodging plans now.

Campgrounds

There are quite a few camping options for you if you want to be close to the Bridge.  Thinking about the kind of group and type of experience you hope to have will help you choose the right site:

Camping in the Gorge

  • Mill Creek Campground – This is a family-oriented campground also run by Adventures On the Gorge. It’s closer to their main campus, which is just ¾ of a mile from the Mountain State Outdoor Center campground, but still an easy walk to the Bridge.
  • ACE NRG Campground – Located a mile down Fayette Station Road, this campground puts you an easy hike from the Bridge or the New River if you want to enjoy the day away from the crowds.
  • Riftrafters Campground -  Located at the Laurel Creek intersection on Rt. 19, you’ll be less than two miles from the Bridge and less than ¼ mile from the Bridge Day Antique Car Show.
  • Gorge Gateway Center - This area offers camping but also has a lot of RV hookups if that’s your preference. From Laurel Creek Road, it’s an easy walk to the Bridge and Fayetteville.

There are many more camping options in the area. And if camping’s not your style, try one of our hotels, cabins, or B&Bs.

Have you camped around the Gorge before?

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Bring Your Appetite to Bridge Day

Friday, August 5th, 2011

When you think of Bridge Day, the images that might come to mind are of colorful parachutes, rappelers dangling precariously below the New River Gorge Bridge, and the iconic arch itself.

Bridge Day celebrates an engineering marvel and the spirit of adventure.  But it is also a celebration of food.  Yes, you heard that right.  Food plays a big role in the event.

Three Ways to Get in Touch with Your Inner Foodie at Bridge Day

Local Fare

Fayetteville, West Virginia can tickle your tastebuds like no other small town.  With a population of only 2.500, this place packs a serious culinary-punch.  It’s just down the road from the Bridge, so you can’t miss it.  Here are a few options:

  • Pies & Pints Pizzeria – Unique pizza that’s been recognized by the Food Network as the Best in West Virginia.  Great local brews on tap as well.
  • Diogi’s – Authentic Mexcian/Central American food in a really cool atmosphere.  Be sure to try the carnitas!
  • The Vandalian – Contemporary American fare with a twist.  Keep an eye out for the availability of Burger & Sushi night.  It’s become a local favorite.
  • Cathedral Cafe – Hearty, breakfast awesomeness served up in what was once a church.  Great array of craft items too.
  • Gumbo’s – Cajun Food. Real Cajun Food!

 

Taste of Bridge Day

Think the list above sounds good?  Imagine most of them (plus more) all in one place at a competition to serve up the best dish.  It’s like a foodie fantasy come true.

Oh yeah…and you get to taste them!  The evening before Bridge Day, you can join us for the annual Taste of Bridge Day presented by WOAY at Smokey’s on the Gorge.  There, restaurants will be showcasing signature dishes in tasting portions.

Simply show up, buy some tickets (from $1-$5 each) and enjoy.

Funnel Cake = Deliciousness

 

On the Bridge

If we could make Bridge Day scratch and sniff stickers they’d sell like funnel cakes.

You’ll find decadence in the carnival fare on the Bridge, like deep fried Oreos, Twinkies and yes, everyone’s favorite – funnel cake!

Event staples like hot dogs, pizza and burgers?  Check.  Unique vegetarian options?  Check.

You’ll also have no problem finding delicious slow-cooked barbecue; simply follow the scent of the sweet smoke.  Or perhaps fajitas or gyros are your thing.  They’ll be there too.

See, Bridge Day is a celebration of food (and oh yeah, people parachuting off a Bridge).  Better bring your appetite.

What’s your favorite Bridge Day food?  Tell us in the comments.

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How to Plan Your Bridge Day Stay

Friday, July 15th, 2011

It’s only July, but believe it or not, people are already planning their Bridge Day trips.  That’s because lodging and activities tend to book up quickly for that weekend.  Have you started to plan?  If not, here are some tips for planning the best Bridge Day vacation ever.

New River Gorge Lodging

We’ve got it all here in the New River Gorge.  You just have to decide what kind of accommodations you want.  From luxurious cabins to rustic camping, you can make the outdoors part of your stay.  If that’s not quite your style, there are some great hotels in the area.

Taste of Bridge Day

Looking for something more quaint? Choose one of our area Bed and Breakfasts.  The Historic Morris Harvey House in Fayetteville is a local favorite.

New River Gorge Dining

You might be surprised by the diverse dining choices available in the Gorge.  There is something for everyone.

Do some homework and scope out locals’ favorite haunts.  Fayetteville, Hico, and Oak Hill have an awesome variety of options – hand-crafted pizza, American cuisine, unique Mexican food, cajun-style fare.  If you stop by Swirl, be sure to try the Blueberry Pie ice cream.

Since it’s nearly impossible to try all of our local restaurants when you’re here, think about coming to the Taste of Bridge Day.  Sponsored by our local Fayetteville and Oak Hill Rotary clubs, it’s on Friday, October 14 at Adventures on the Gorge.  You’ll have the chance to sample a signature item from several local eateries.  And you can bet you’ll run into some local rafting and Bridge Day pioneers.

Plan An Adventure

Bridge Day coincides with the end of Gauley Season.  If you’re thinking of rafting the Gauley, make sure that you’re experienced enough to handle the class IV, class V, and class V+ rapids that you’ll be facing.  And if the Gauley’s not for you, rafting the New is a great option.  This is a really busy weekend for outfitters, so be sure to book your trip in advance.

If you don’t want to get on the water, try a canopy tour or zip line.  These trips have quickly become a favorite adventure for locals and visitors alike.  Autumn is a pretty spectacular time to soar through the trees.

And why not go for the ultimate adventure – tandem jump off of the New River Gorge Bridge! Only 10 spots are available for a brave and lucky few, so you should make the call quickly if you’re up for jumping.

So go ahead and start making your Bridge Day plans.  It’s never too soon.  Besides, who doesn’t like looking forward to a vacation?

See you there!

 

 

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Little Known Truths in Bridge Day History

Monday, June 27th, 2011

Bridge Day started as a reception.

When the Bridge first opened, Senator Jay Rockefeller (then Governor of West Virginia) wanted to host a reception to celebrate this great feat. It was 1977, and while the gathering wasn’t officially called ‘Bridge Day’, it was the first official closing of lanes to traffic and the first opportunity to walk out on the bridge.

New River Gorge Bridge

Visitors on the Bridge

Bridge Day was once cancelled.

After the events of September 11, the 2001 event – just weeks later – was too much of a risk and a potential target. While many were disappointed, it was in the best interest of the attendees and all involved.

40,000 people attended the first official Bridge Day.

The Chamber of Commerce expected about 8,000 people and were shocked but pleased by the turnout.  The year was 1980 and all walkers that completed a full trip across the Bridge also received a certificate.

Bridge Day was twice extended.

In 2008, WV Senator Joe Manchin (then Governor of West Virginia) extended Bridge Day, just because he could.  Thanks Joe!  Then, in 2010, Governor Manchin extended Bridge Day for 30 minutes since the morning jumps were plagued by fog.

What cool things will happen at the 2011 Bridge Day?  You may have to be there to find out. It’s only about 100 days away!

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Cool Things You’ve Asked About Bridge Day:  And the REAL Answers

Tuesday, April 12th, 2011

Bridge Day is one of those events that takes a village to get ready for.  And in the midst of all our chatting with you – either at the Visitors Center, the CVB, on our Facebook page or on the Bridge- you’ve asked some pretty interesting questions.  Some of which we honestly had no idea the answer.

But now that we’ve got some time – we decided to dig a little deeper into our backstory and give you the complete 411.  So here goes…

Q:  So how many volunteers does it take to pull off Bridge Day?

The Bridge

A:  A lot.  Typically on Bridge Day we have in excess of 70 volunteers on the ground – from the pickup crew in water, to the Boy Scouts on recycling, and the activity volunteers in-between.

Q:  Will the event ever be extended beyond 5 p.m.?
A:  Tough call really.  Since the event is centered around rerouting traffic from along a very busy roadway, it’s doubtful. But who knows.  We learn to never say never.

Q:  Can I drive down Fayette Station Road?
A:  You can drive down into the gorge 364 days a year – the exception being during Bridge Day when it is closed to our event traffic only.  The road is one-way and is best traveled  in good weather.   The Canyon Rim Visitors Center at the top of the gorge also offers a neat audio tour that interprets the area as you drive.

Have any other burning questions?  Send them our way.

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A Blogging Look Back

Tuesday, January 25th, 2011

Bridge Day, New River Gorge

Bridge Day, New River Gorge

We’re pretty fired-up that so many of you take the time to check out our blog, but we enjoy reading your takes on the New River Gorge as well.  Here are our top three blog picks from 2010 from rock climbing to jumping and everything in-between.

You guys are pretty clever writers and we’re glad you took a minute to document your trip.

#3.  Rachel Travels // Wild & Wonderful West Virginia

Rachel not only travels but she also rafts.  Chronicle her adventures on Bridge Day and on a raft headed down the Gauley.

#2.  Millivers Travels // New River Gorge

A great recap of the overlook area, including some great pictures.

And drumroll please…

#1.  The New River Gorge and beyond…

A combination of climbing, baking, and hanging out in Southern WV.  Some of our favorites!

To all you bloggers – congrats!  We’ll get working on one of those nifty seals for your blog asap.  Thanks for traveling to see us in the New River Gorge.  Come back anytime.

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Welcome to Bridge Day 2010

Saturday, October 16th, 2010

We’re ready.

The ongoing process of planning Bridge Day is time-consuming, detailed and yes, stressful. Watching it all set into motion on the morning of the event, is well…priceless.

Sites:

Bridge Day 2010

Bridge Day Vendors Heading to the Bridge

The security personnel and vendors are lined up ready to head to the bridge. Flashing lights, fog, and a stream of headlights. Trailers painted with words like “Funnel Cake”, and other phrases beginning with “fried”.

Off in the distance. Fog. It’s a fall morning in the New River Gorge, that’s just the way it is.

Walking onto the bridge, you can only see the rails of each side disappear into the fog. In the center a team of BASE jumpers hurriedly arrange, organize and assemble the jump platform.

The rappel teams make their way down below. Covered in carabineers, straps, helmets and packs.

The Sounds
The dull hum of engines, generators and clanging of aluminum as tents go up.

Walking onto the bridge, you can hear the BASE team giving instruction on setting up the platform. You can hear them but not see. The fog has seemingly eaten them.

Down below, the sound of the “Pick-Up Guys” firing their engines. It’s almost time.

The “Feel”

Jump Platform

Assembling the Jump Platform

It’s fall. Cool, crisp air, fog, the “smell” of fall. The excitement is palpable.

As the vendors begin set up, the smell of barbecue immediately fills the air. If they made a car air freshener that smelled like this, we want a case.

This however, is the one part, we simply cannot adequately describe. You need to come and experience it for yourself. People are excited, happy and ready to have fun.

The weather forecast says mid-60′s and sunshine. Repeat. Sunshine.

The line to enter has formed, the shuttles are running, the flag is being raised. It’s time.

Welcome to Bridge Day 2010.

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