The New River Gorge Bridge, 876' above the New River, is one of the best long rappels in the world. Each Bridge Day, hundreds of individuals come to rappel and/or ascend the New River Gorge Bridge. Rappelling has been a part of Bridge Day for over twenty years. The rappel teams are selected by a drawing in June. The majority of the rappellers are either cavers, firemen, EMT's, rescue personnel, climbers, and/or rope instructors. The rappellers come from all parts of the US and several foreign countries. The rappel is between 700 and 850 feet, depending on the anchor on the catwalk. Experience, skill, equipment, and being a member of a team are required.