CHARLESTON, W.Va. — More than 120,000 spectators gathered at the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve on Saturday, making this year’s Bridge Day one of the largest in West Virginia’s history despite the federal shutdown.
Nearly 400 BASE jumpers from 39 states and four countries took the daring dive 876 feet into the Gorge. Below the bridge, 300 thrill-seekers rappelled and high-lined across the canyon, while over 200 vendors lined the half-mile span. The Bridge Day 5K, hosted by Active Southern West Virginia, welcomed 500 runners from 26 states across the U.S.
“Bridge Day is a great opportunity for West Virginia to showcase its amazing natural beauty and outdoor recreation with the world,” said Governor Patrick Morrisey. “This incredible event wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of so many wonderful people.”
Governor Morrisey credited the Bridge Day Commission, Department of Highways, Fayette County Sheriff’s Office, local Emergency Medical Services, National Guard, National Park Service, New River Gorge Convention and Visitors Bureau, West Virginia State Police, and Visit Southern West Virginia Convention and Visitors Bureau and so many others for making this year’s Bridge Day one of the most successful events West Virginia has seen in recent years.
“Thanks to Governor Morrisey, this year’s Bridge Day not only went forward, but became one of the highest-attended events in recent history,” said West Virginia Department of Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “I appreciate the Governor’s continued commitment to supporting tourism and keeping the local economy going in both the New River Gorge and Harpers Ferry regions.”
On October 3, 2025, Gov. Morrisey announced that West Virginia was the first state in the nation to receive a signed donor agreement from the National Park Service to fully reopen its national parks amid the federal government shutdown. The agreement has since been renewed, and the state has pledged to continue its support through October 31st, provided the shutdown remains in effect.
“While Democrats and Senator Schumer continue to play political games that have led to a federal shutdown, West Virginians keep showing up, working hard, and moving our state forward,” Morrisey said.