Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge: 2025 Hiker’s Guide

Endless Wall Trail might be the BEST hike in New River Gorge National Park!

It offers incredible views of the gorge and the rushing river nearly 1,000 feet below as well as a glimpse of the New River Gorge Bridge.

This scenic trail winds through lush forest, crosses a small creek, and follows the rim of towering sandstone cliffs, where multiple overlooks provide breathtaking vistas.

It’s a popular choice for both hikers and rock climbers, and a great option year-round with each season offering something different.

Whether you’re looking for a quick out-and-back hike to Diamond Point Overlook or planning to complete the full loop, this trail is a must-do for anyone visiting New River Gorge.

Read through my complete hiking guide for tips on parking, route options, and what to expect on the trail! 🙌

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Endless Wall Trail Overview: Trail Stats + Map

Endless Wall Trail Stats

Endless Wall Trail Map

Endless Wall Trail Parking and Directions

The Endless Wall Trail has two trailheads to choose from.

The Fern Creek Trailhead is the more popular starting point, but the parking area is fairly small – holds about 20 vehicles.

Plan to arrive early to snag a parking spot, especially during peak season!

For a less crowded option, the Nuttall Trailhead offers a larger parking area and makes a great alternative if Fern Creek is full.

Vault toilets are available at both trailheads.

🚗 Directions: To reach the Endless Wall Trail, turn off U.S. Route 19 onto Lansing-Edmond Road, just north of the Canyon Rim Visitor Center.

The Fern Creek Trailhead is 1.3 miles down this narrow road while the Nuttall Trailhead is 1.8 miles from Route 19.

⚠️ Do NOT park along Lansing-Edmond Road – vehicles may be towed!

Best Time to Hike Endless Wall Trail

The Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge is a fantastic hike year-round!

My favorite times to visit are winter, when a light dusting of snow creates a magical landscape, and fall, when the trees burst into stunning shades of red, orange, and gold.

One of the absolute best experiences on this trail is catching the sunrise from Diamond Point Overlook.

This stunning viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the gorge, making it one of the top spots in the park to watch the sunrise.

✨ READ THIS: 8 Best Hikes in New River Gorge National Park

Seasonal Considerations

🌷 Spring (March – May)

Spring brings comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers along the trail.

However, early spring rains can make parts of the trail muddy, and morning fog in the gorge may limit visibility at overlooks.

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Hot and humid conditions make summer hiking more challenging.

For the most part, this trail is within a forest providing ample amounts of shade.

However, I still recommend starting this hike early in the summer to beat the heat (and avoid big crowds).

🍂 Fall (September – November)

Fall is arguably the best time to hike the Endless Wall Trail.

Crisp air and peak foliage in mid-to-late October transform the gorge into a breathtaking mix of red, orange, and gold.

This is also a popular season, so expect more hikers on the trail, especially on weekends.

☃️ Winter (December – February)

Winter offers a peaceful, crowd-free experience.

A light dusting of snow makes the trail and viewpoints even more scenic!

Just be cautious of snowy/icy conditions which can make the trail and overlooks slippery.

Dress in layers, wear proper footwear, and be cautious near cliff edges!

Endless Wall Trail Sunrise

Watching the sunrise from Diamond Point Overlook is an unforgettable experience.

The overlook sits high above the gorge, offering a front-row seat to the sun rising over the New River.

The early morning light casts a golden glow on the cliffs, and mist often lingers in the valley below, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

If you’re up for an early start, this is hands down one of the most beautiful sunrise spots in New River Gorge National Park!

✨ For the ultimate adventure, check out my in-depth New River Gorge guide! It’s packed with 1- to 5-day itineraries, top outdoor adventures, the best dining spots, essential trip-planning tips, and more.

Endless Wall Trail Hiking Routes: Step-by-Step Trail Directions

Diamond Point Overlook via Endless Wall Trail

For a shorter out-and-back hike to one of the best viewpoints in New River Gorge National Park, you can start from either trailhead:

• Fern Creek Trailhead to Diamond Point Overlook – 2.2 miles roundtrip
• Nuttall Trailhead to Diamond Point Overlook – 2.8 miles roundtrip

My husband and I have hiked to Diamond Point Overlook via the Endless Wall Trail more times than we can count.

We always start from the Fern Creek Trailhead, hike to the overlook for a breathtaking sunrise, and then retrace our steps back.

While the trail forms a loop, we’ve never completed it – the road walk back just doesn’t appeal to us.

Plus, the highlight of this hike is the Diamond Point Overlook, and we’re happy making it a simple out-and-back adventure.

The rest of the trail beyond the main overlook offers a few smaller overlooks and some fun ladders leading to climber access points.

But if your goal is just to reach the Diamond Point Overlook, the quickest route is from the Fern Creek Trailhead.

🥾 Trail Directions:

1. Start at Fern Creek Trailhead and follow the Endless Wall Trail through a beautiful forest of towering hemlocks, rhododendrons, and mountain laurels.
2. After about 1 mile, you’ll reach a junction with a trail sign directing you to the Diamond Point Overlook.
3. Take in the jaw-dropping views – this exposed rock ledge offers one of the best panoramic overlooks in New River Gorge National Park.
4. When you’re ready, retrace your steps to return to the Fern Creek Trailhead.

✅ Pro tip: This trail can get crowded in summer and on weekends, so for the best experience, arrive early or visit during the off-season (winter is especially peaceful).

Endless Wall Trail Loop

For those who prefer a longer route, you can complete the full Endless Wall Trail loop, which is about 3.2 miles roundtrip.

This route allows you to see the entire trail, including the Diamond Point Overlook, several smaller overlooks, and ladders that lead to climber access points.

🥾 Trail Directions:

1. Start at Fern Creek Trailhead and hike 1.1 miles to Diamond Point Overlook.
2. Continue past Diamond Point, following the trail along the cliff edge.
3. At around the 2.7-mile mark, you’ll reach the Nuttall Trailhead at the southern end of the trail.
4. From here, walk 0.5 miles along Lansing-Edmond Road back to the Fern Creek Trailhead to complete the loop.

⚠️ The final 0.5-mile road walk on Lansing-Edmond Road is narrow and winding with limited shoulder space, so be extra cautious of vehicles passing by!

Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge: Hiking Tips + Packing List

Endless Wall Trail Hiking Tips

1. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by beginning your hike in the morning, especially in peak season.

2. Check the Weather: While Endless Wall Trail is generally not a difficult hike, the exposed rock overlooks can be slick and dangerous in rain, snow, or ice. Always check the forecast before heading out.

3. Wear the Proper Footwear: The trail is quite rocky with exposed roots, and the overlooks can be slippery after rain or in snow – hiking shoes or boots with good traction are definitely beneficial!

4. Watch Your Step at the Overlooks: The Diamond Point Overlook and other viewpoints do not have safety railings – always be mindful if exploring near the cliff edges.

5. Respect Climbers: The ladders along the trail lead to popular rock climbing areas – if you see climbers below, avoid knocking loose dirt or rocks over the edge.

6. Watch for Bears: Black bears live in New River Gorge National Park – follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.

7. Watch for Timber Rattlesnakes and Northern Copperheads: These snakes are poisonous and can sometimes be found hiding within rock crevices or in the middle of a trail – be careful when hiking the Endless Wall Trail!

8. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of New River Gorge National Park.

Endless Wall Trail Packing List

• Lightweight Day Pack
• Hiking boots or shoes
• Water bottles or hydration bladder
• Water filtration and treatment system
• Layers of clothing (what you wear depends on the weather forecast and conditions along the trail – always bring extra layers just in case)
  • Moisture-wicking base layer (can be tank top, short sleeve, or long sleeve)
  • Mid-layer (lightweight or midweight down jacket / fleece pullover)
  • Windbreaker / Rain jacket
  • Gloves and warm beanie
• Extra socks (midweight, merino wool socks)
• Buff (protects your face and neck against the sun and wind)
• Headlamps (with extra batteries)
• Hiking poles (optional)
• Microspikes (may or may not be needed but beneficial if ice/snow is present anywhere on the trail – always research the current trail conditions before heading out)
• Sun protection
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat
  • Sun-protective clothing
  • Lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses
• Bug repellent and/or mosquito head net
• Waste disposal supplies (there are vault toilets at each trailhead but bring toiletry items just in case – toilet paper, pee cloth, Ziploc bag – pack it out!!)
• Phone with a reliable power bank and charger
• Emergency supplies
  • GPS Satellite Communicator
  • Navigation System (physical map, compass, handheld GPS device, downloaded offline map on phone)
  • Plenty of water (at least 1 to 2 liters for this hike depending on conditions)
  • Plenty of snacks (my favorite hiking snacks are peanut butter sandwiches, sour patch kids, peanut butter pretzel bites, salty chips, energy bars, and trail mix)
  • First-aid kit (a basic kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister care, tweezers, and medications, such as Ibuprofen, Antacids, Antihistamine, prescriptions)
  • Rain gear (important to keep dry – pack a light rain jacket or poncho)
  • Emergency shelter (emergency bivy)
  • Fire (matches, a lighter, or fire starter for warmth or signaling in emergencies)
  • Multi-tool or knife

Endless Wall Trail Photos

Conclusion

The Endless Wall Trail is one of the best hikes in New River Gorge National Park!

This scenic trail winds through a peaceful forest, leading to several breathtaking overlooks, with Diamond Point Overlook being the true highlight.

Along the way, you’ll also find fun ladders that provide access to popular rock climbing routes, adding an extra element of adventure.

If you have the chance, catching the sunrise from Diamond Point Overlook is an unforgettable experience – the way the morning light illuminates the gorge is absolutely magical. ✨

If you’re visiting New River Gorge, Endless Wall Trail is a must-hike.

You won’t regret adding it to your itinerary!

If this guide inspires you to hike the Endless Wall Trail in New River Gorge, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

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