The New River

South Fork of the New River

The New River is probably misnamed, because it's one of the five oldest rivers in the world. It flows through the states of North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia and is part of the watershed of the Ohio River. It begins in the beautiful North Carolina mountains, not too far from the Tennessee state line and is the only nontidal river that crosses the Appalachian Mountains. Many scientist believe the Appalachians are the oldest mountains in the world. The North and South Forks of the New River meet in northern Ashe County. From there, it flows northwest (a very unusual direction for a river), across the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Great Appalachian Valley, the Alleghany Front, and the Appalachina Plateau where the New River Gorge is. Finally, it meets the Gauley River, and they become the Kanawha, which flows into the Gulf of Mexico after joining with the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers. Sections of the New River are famous for their white water rafting.

Mount Jefferson in Ashe County

The New River has several types of common fish, like bass, bluegill, carp, catfish, crappie, flathead, muskellunge, trout, and walleye. It also has seven species not believed to exist anywhere else: Appalachian darter, bigmouth chub, bluestone sculpin, candy darter, Kanawha darter, Kanawha minnow, and New River shiner.

Ashe County above the New River

Scenically, this is a stunning area or gorgeous views, spectacular plants, and beautiful animals. It draws people from all over the world to enjoy its outdoor experiences and tourist attractions.

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