About the New River Birding & Nature Festival

"For someone who had not been on a bird trip before, I think this is a great place to start. The guides and other attendees picked up on my being a rookie right away and were most helpful. I learned a tremendous amount and am looking forward to another trip to practice those warbler skills! Let's hope the neck holds out!" - First Time Visitor

Since 2002, the annual New River Birding & Nature Spring Festival highlights more than 100 bird species on a variety of birding tours in and around the New River Gorge National River, in the heart of the upland, hardwood forests that Cornell Lab of Ornithology has identified as a crucial stopover habitat for the continued survival of species such as Golden-winged, Blue-winged, and Swainson's Warblers, as well as the Scarlet Tanager.

A friendly birding and nature vacation for everyone, the week long event features guided birding and nature excursions, world-class speakers, the finest collection of guides, tasty food and a back-porch atmosphere unmatched by any other birding and nature festival. Signature guided bird watching experiences include opportunities to visit a wide range of habitats with world class instruction for beginners as well as those wanting to enhance their skills.

FUTURE DATES:

2026, Apr 27 - May 2

About the New River Birding & Nature Festival | Our Story & Mission

Trip Planning Schedule What to Pack Travel Notes