Pulse-pounding adventures for Valentine’s Day
February 14 doesn’t have to be sweet n’ mild. Live a little! Go beyond those candy hearts … and make your real ticker pound with action-filled dates.
A walk like no other
Ever gone on a catwalk that’s 876 feet high and 3,030 feet long? Bridge Walk tours of theNew River Gorge Bridge are like nothing else!
It’s also where you can get an incredible Valentine’s Day deal. On Feb. 14, the Lansing-based company will have two-for-one deals. Reserve those tickets and go! The stupendous views and unbelievable height are unforgettable. Can’t make it that day? Bridge Walk has daily tours that fit your schedule.
Dramatic yet safe, these hikes never fail to stir your heart. How perfect for Valentine’s Day!
Pedal Power
Chase after love through the New River Gorge. The region has outstanding bike trails, most notably Arrowhead. It’s a stacked-loop system with easy and difficult paths. Flowy and invigorating, they appeal to riders of all levels.
Kaymoor Trail is another hit. If you’re comfortable with “moderate” workouts, this 8.6-miler has intriguing mine sites, old roads, and forest scenery.
On the other hand, there’s something to be said for leisurely rides. The Park Loop Trail is perfect for chatting while pedaling. It’s 1.1 miles long (total) and goes through a forest. As another bonus, it’s minutes from downtown Fayetteville. When you’re done biking, venture in for dinner or coffee!
Rentals and gear are available in town. Marathon Bicycle Co. has top-of-the-line mountain bikes you can borrow for the day. Another option is New River Bike, which has trips. They have part-day and full-day outings for everybody: beginner, intermediate or advanced. It’s a great way to tour the gorge outback.
Solve a mystery—together
Teamwork makes the dream work. How about love? Find out at Epic Escape Game: New River Gorge in Fayetteville.
Three interactive mysteries are yours to solve. Each one has an atmospheric setting with clues, riddles and a “locked” door. You only have 60 minutes to solve the puzzle. Try to beat the clock and escape in time! Win or fail, one thing’s for sure: your heart will definitely race.
Bend a little
Love and yoga? They’re more compatible than you might think. Come to New River Yoga 
in Fayetteville for a class (or classes!). Friendly teachers offer everything from power workouts to vinyasa flow. Beginners are more than welcome, too.
As a special tribute to Valentine’s Day, New River Yoga will have an “Open Your Heart” workshop on Feb. 10. Bend that back, free your chest and bring your favorite quote about love. The class is $25 for non-members or $20 for members.
Regardless of your experience, yoga is great for the heart. It’s a gentle exercise that strengthens muscles, improves flexibility and eases stress. You’ll also learn how to meditate. Drop by for a class! Lessons are available all week.
Happy Valentine’s Day! What moves your heart?