Bluestone National Scenic River
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.
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.
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Guided Tours
- Hiking
- Hunting and Gathering
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Birdwatching
- Farming and Agriculture
- Animals
- Birds
- Fish
- Forests and Woodlands
- Deciduous Forests
- Geology
- Mountains
- River and Riparian
- Rock Landscapes and Features
- Trails
Bluestone River
Bluestone National Scenic River offers a quiet getaway.
Leading a hike
Ranger Richard leads a guided walk on the Turnpike Trail
Bluestone Turnpike Trail
NPS Ranger Richard Altaire provides an overview of the park map to a visitor to the Bluestone NSR.
Enjoying the day
A young hiker makes his own connection with Bluestone National Scenic River.
Bluestone River
The Bluestone River
Bluestone River
The Bluestone River