Bullpasture Gorge is a wild and beautiful river canyon in the remote western highlands of Virginia, where the Bullpasture River carves a dramatic gorge through Highland County near Williamsville. A favorite of whitewater paddlers and hikers alike, it's the scenic centerpiece of the Highland Wildlife Management Area — rugged, uncrowded, and full of mountain character.

For paddlers, the gorge offers about three miles of exciting whitewater, with rapids ranging up to Class III, IV, and even V at higher flows — a serious run best left to experienced kayakers and rafters with the skills to match. For everyone else, foot trails wind through the gorge and over Bullpasture Mountain, including a dramatic cable suspension footbridge across the river, and the stocked trout waters draw anglers from across the region.

A couple of important access notes. Because this is a state Wildlife Management Area, everyone 17 and up needs a valid access credential to visit — a Virginia hunting, fishing, or boating license, a DWR access permit, or a Restore the Wild membership. Reaching parts of the gorge also requires fording the Bullpasture River, which can be dangerous at high flows, so use caution and stay out when the water is up. During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange for safety.

Spring brings the biggest water for paddling, while summer and fall are lovely for hiking and fishing. Come prepared for the backcountry, watch the river levels, and pack out everything you bring in. For whitewater thrills or a quiet mountain hike, Bullpasture Gorge is one of western Virginia's hidden gems.