Yes, New River Gorge is completely free to enter — no gate, no pass, no booth. But there's an interesting reason why, and a few things worth knowing before you show up. Here's the full picture.

Only have one day at the New River Gorge? We've thought a lot about this. Here's exactly how a local would spend it — from the can't-miss stops everyone should see to a choose-your-own-adventure afternoon.