3 Places to Watch the Action (which aren’t on the Bridge)

Looking for a great spot to catch the action on Bridge Day?  You're in luck. While the majority of folks that join us for the event will be viewing from the deck of the Bridge, we thought we could share a few other places to consider.

Long Point

Combine a hike with beautiful views and a prime vantage point for all the action and you will get Long Point. A favorite hike of many, you can walk the 1.5 miles each way to the giant rocks to view jumpers in the distance.

Be prepared to walk, and also prepared to share the rock with other spectators (and security). The trail is mostly flat, yet there are a handful of steeps and a number of rocky areas, so be prepared. Also, be careful. Their are steep drop-offs on the outcropping so be smart and stay safe.

Getting There: The Long Point Trailhead is reached via Gatewood Road. From U.S. Route 19, follow Route 16 South through the town of Fayetteville. Take a left on Gatewood Road (sign indicating Kaymoor and Cunard). Follow this road for 1.9 miles, and turn left on Newton Road. Parking is 50 yards down on the left.

New River Gorge Preserve

While on the opposite side of the jump platform you can still watch all the jumpers and enjoy a magnificent view of the New River Gorge Bridge. You are invited to visit on Bridge Day. You can drive to a small gravel parking lot and walk a short distance to the stone-covered overlook.

Getting There: From Route 19 stoplight in Fayetteville take Route 16 towards Gauley Bridge. Follow just past Ball's grocery and look for the New River Gorge Preserve entrance marker. Follow the blacktop road through the property and take a left at the wooden stop sign.

Tunney Hunsaker Bridge

Before the New River Gorge Bridge was complete, this was the Bridge. Known by many as "The little bridge", it has been named in honor of former Fayetteville Chief of Police Tunney Hunsaker. And by the way, Tunney was Cassius Clay's first professional fight.  Yes, that is Muhammad Ali's first professional fight too.

You'll need to be among the first 200 to purchase shuttles, or be prepared for the long walk (4 miles each way). However, once you arrive you will have a beautiful view of the Bridge, jumpers and Fayette Station Rapid.

Getting There: Walk, ride, skip, run... or purchase a shuttle ticket and head to the river.

Have a great location to share? Please post a comment and let us know.