The Bluestone River and the rugged, ancient gorge it has carved form a richly diverse and scenic area of the southern Appalachians. Bluestone National Scenic River is preserved as a living landscape that provides an unspoiled experience for visitors and a haven for a variety of plants and animals. The park protects a 10.5-mile section of the Bluestone River in southern West Virginia. Summer temperatures range from the low to mid 60s at night to the middle to upper 80s during the day. In winter, temperatures average from the mid 20s to the mid 40s, and snowfall varies but averages 5 inches per month from December through March. In spring and fall, temperatures and rainfall are variable, and peak fall foliage is usually in mid-October.