W hether altered, restored or untouched by humanity, the story of the Blue Ridge region told by nature and science is singularly inspiring. Let's listen as she tells us her past, present and future. ELKINS-RANDOLPH COUNTY TOURISM CVB )) West Virginia New River Gorge Let's begin our journey on the continent's oldest river, surrounded by 1,000-foot cliffs. Carving its way through all the geographic provinces in the Appalachian Mountains, this 53-mile-long north-flowing river is flanked by rocky outcrops and sandstone cliffs. Immerse your senses in the sights, sounds, fragrances and power of the flow at Sandstone Falls. View the gorge " from the sky " with a catwalk stroll 876 feet up on the western hemisphere's longest steel arch bridge. nps.gov/neri ABOVE: See a bird's-eye view from the bridge spanning West Virginia's New River Gorge. LEFT: Learn ecosystem restoration at Mower Tract. MAIN IMAGE: View 90° razorback ridges at Seneca Rocks. JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 35