8 Best Hikes in New River Gorge You Can’t Miss!

Best Hikes in New River Gorge National Park

1. Endless Wall Trail to Diamond Point Overlook

The Endless Wall Trail is one of the most scenic hikes in New River Gorge National Park, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and a glimpse of the New River Gorge Bridge.

Winding through lush forest, crossing a small creek, and following the rim of towering sandstone cliffs, this trail features multiple overlooks that showcase the stunning landscape.

A favorite among both hikers and rock climbers, this trail is enjoyable year-round, with each season bringing its own unique charm.

Watching the sunrise from Diamond Point Overlook is an unforgettable experience – if you’re up for an early start, it’s one of the most beautiful sunrise spots in the park!

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Endless Wall Trail has two trailheads:

• Fern Creek Trailhead: The more popular starting point, but parking is limited (about 20 vehicles) – arrive early, especially during peak season!
• Nuttall Trailhead: A larger parking area, making it a great alternative if Fern Creek is full.

Vault toilets are available at both trailheads.

🗺️ Choose Your Route

• Fern Creek Trailhead to Diamond Point Overlook – 2.2 miles roundtrip
• Nuttall Trailhead to Diamond Point Overlook – 2.8 miles roundtrip
• Full Endless Wall Loop – 3.2 miles, including a 0.5-mile road walk on Lansing-Edmond Road (be cautious, as the road is narrow with limited pedestrian space).

My husband and I have hiked to Diamond Point Overlook more times than we can count.

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

Although the trail forms a loop, we prefer the out-and-back route – the road walk back just doesn’t appeal to us.

✅ Pro Tips!

• This trail gets crowded in summer and on weekends, so for the best experience, arrive early or visit during the off-season – winter is especially peaceful.
• If you start from the Nuttall Trailhead (or complete the full loop), you’ll come across fun ladders that provide access to popular rock climbing routes, adding an extra element of adventure.
• Watch sunrise from Diamond Point Overlook – if the weather cooperates, you will not be disappointed!

2. Long Point Trail to Long Point Overlook

Long Point Trail is one of the most popular hikes in New River Gorge National Park, leading to a breathtaking overlook of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge.

This 3-mile roundtrip trail winds through a dense forest before reaching Long Point Overlook, a dramatic rock outcrop with sweeping, panoramic views of the gorge.

The overlook is especially stunning in the fall when the landscape bursts into vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold.

It’s also a fantastic spot for both sunrise and sunset, offering a golden-hour glow over the gorge.

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Long Point Trailhead features a spacious parking area that can accommodate approximately 25 to 30 vehicles.

Vault toilets are available near the trailhead.

Since Long Point Trail is one of the most popular hikes in New River Gorge, parking fills up quickly during peak season (spring through fall).

Arrive early to secure a spot, especially on weekends.

🥾 Long Point Trail Description

The hike begins on a mostly easy trail that meanders through a beautiful, shaded forest.

As you near the overlook, the final stretch becomes steeper and rockier, but the effort is well worth it.

You will walk along a beautiful ridge – don’t worry, it’s not too narrow!

At the end of the trail, you’ll reach Long Point Overlook, a stunning rock outcrop that provides one of the best vantage points of the New River Gorge Bridge.

Since the overlook faces north, you won’t see the sun rising or setting directly over the bridge, but the soft, golden light at dawn and dusk creates an unforgettable scene.

✅ Pro Tips!

• There are no safety railings, so be mindful near the cliff edges.
• Bikes are allowed on the trail except for the final 0.2 miles – a bike rack is available where riders must continue on foot.
• Fall is especially beautiful, but the overlook is a great spot year-round. For fewer crowds, visit early in the morning or during the off-season.
• Hiking poles would be beneficial for the last 0.2 miles as the trail becomes steeper and rockier!

3. Grandview Rim Trail to Turkey Spur Rock

The Grandview Rim Trail to Turkey Spur Rock is one of the most scenic hikes in New River Gorge National Park, offering breathtaking views of a dramatic horseshoe bend where the New River and an active railroad wind around the mountains.

My husband and I have hiked this trail many times, and watching the sunrise from its overlooks never gets old.

If you’re looking for sweeping views and a relatively easy hike, this one should be high on your list!

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Grandview Rim Trailhead is located near the Grandview Main Overlook, where you’ll find a large parking lot with plenty of space for vehicles.

For those looking for a shorter hike, a narrow road leads to a small parking area at Turkey Spur.

However, parking here is very limited, and extra-large vehicles are not recommended due to the tight, winding road.

🥾 Grandview Rim Trail to Turkey Spur Rock Description

This trail is mostly easy, with a few short, steep sections.

It connects the Grandview Main Overlook with Turkey Spur Rock, where a series of wooden steps lead to even more incredible panoramic views.

For an unforgettable sunrise, head to the Grandview Main Overlook, just a short walk from the parking lot.

If you prefer a quieter experience, hike along the Grandview Rim Trail and stop at one of the many overlooks along the way.

You may need to search for a clear vantage point, as some spots are partially obscured by trees and bushes.

At the end of the trail, Turkey Spur Rock offers stunning 360-degree views of the gorge, making the climb up the steps well worth the effort!

If you’re up for a longer adventure, consider adding the Castle Rock Trail to create a 4-mile lollipop route, which includes unique rock formations and even more incredible overlooks.

✅ Pro Tips!

• The Main Overlook is the most accessible, but it can get crowded – for a quieter experience, take the Grandview Rim Trail and find a less-visited overlook.
• The Grandview Main Overlook has plenty of parking, while the Turkey Spur lot is very limited and not ideal for extra-large vehicles.
• Want a longer, more challenging hike? Add the Castle Rock Trail to explore unique rock formations!

4. Kaymoor Miners Trail

Deep in the heart of New River Gorge National Park, the Kaymoor Miners Trail offers a tough but rewarding trek into West Virginia’s mining past.

This short yet steep hike features 950 feet of elevation loss in just 0.75 miles, including 821 wooden steps, leading to the Kaymoor One Mine and Kaymoor Bottom (a once-thriving coal mining town).

Just remember, what goes down must come up!

Is that how that saying goes or is it the other way around? 🤔

In other words, you will have to gain 950 feet on the way back up which includes those 800+ steps!

It’s a tough hike but worth every step, I promise!

I personally love exploring old, abandoned structures and towns, so this trail is one of my favorites in New River Gorge.

For those who love a combination of history and adventure, and want a serious leg workout, the Kaymoor Miners Trail is the perfect hike for you!

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Kaymoor Miners Trailhead is located off Kaymoor Road in the Canyon Rim area of New River Gorge National Park.

Parking is available at Kaymoor Top, the ridgeline above the mine, but the lot is small and narrow, making it difficult for larger vehicles, RVs, or trailers to maneuver.

Vault toilets are located near the trailhead.

Other nearby trails, such as Butcher Branch Trail and Fayetteville Trail, also start from this area.

🥾 Kaymoor Miners Trail Description and History

This short but intense trail descends steeply into the gorge, with the final stretch featuring 821 wooden steps leading to the ruins of Kaymoor Bottom.

Kaymoor One Mine was founded in 1900 and once fueled industrial expansion across America.

It was one of the most productive coal mines in the region.

At its peak, over 560 residents lived in Kaymoor Bottom, with company housing, a store, schools, churches, a doctor’s office, and even a theater.

Today, the remnants of the coal processing plant and power station stand as a reminder of West Virginia’s mining era.

✅ Pro Tips!

• Bring plenty of water and salty snacks – climbing back up those 821 steps is no joke, especially in the summer heat.
• Be cautious when hiking in wet or icy conditions – the steps can become extremely slippery.
• Do not attempt to reach the river – the terrain is steep, and the railroad tracks are on private property.
• Respect the historical site – do not remove artifacts, jump the fences, or enter structures or buildings
• Report vandalism – if you see anything suspicious, notify park authorities at 304-465-0508.

5. Castle Rock Trail

This short loop combines unique rock formations of Castle Rock Trail and the breathtaking overlooks along Grandview Rim Trail.

It’s the perfect option for hikers looking for a more adventurous, scenic, and rewarding experience in New River Gorge National Park!

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Castle Rock Trailhead is located near the Grandview Main Overlook, where you’ll find a large parking lot with plenty of space for vehicles.

Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.

🥾 Alternate, Longer Route

For a more challenging and scenic hike, combine the Castle Rock Trail and Grandview Rim Trail to Turkey Spur Rock.

This is a 4-mile moderately challenging lollipop route.

Start hiking along the Castle Rock Trail, veer right onto Grandview Rim Trail and continue toward Turkey Spur Rock.

Once you’ve taken in the sights, retrace your steps along Grandview Rim Trail back to the parking area, completing the lollipop route.

✅ Pro Tips!

• The NPS website states the Castle Rock Trail is “strenuous” which could be for some but I personally think it’s moderately difficult.
• Be cautious of uneven, rocky terrain, narrow ledges, and steep drop-offs.
• NPS website also states this trail is not recommended for young children or anyone uncomfortable with heights.
• Be cautious when hiking the Castle Rock Trail in wet or icy conditions – the rock surfaces can become slippery.

6. Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk begins at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center parking lot, located off U.S. Route 19 in Lansing, West Virginia.

From the visitor center, follow the sidewalk and look for signs pointing you towards Canyon Rim Overlook.

Restrooms are available inside the Canyon Rim Visitor Center.

🥾 Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk Trail Description

This short hike provides an amazing closeup view of the New River Gorge Bridge.

The trail starts as an easy walk along a wheel-chair accessible boardwalk leading to the first viewing platform, which offers a nice view of the bridge.

For the best views, continue down 178 wooden steps to the lower overlook, where you will have an even closer look at the New River Gorge Bridge.

The descent is easy but remember, you’ll have to climb all 178 steps on the way back up!

✅ Pro Tips!

• The upper platform is wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for visitors of all abilities.
• While the steps down are effortless, the return hike can be challenging – take your time and bring water, especially on hot days.
• Arrive early or visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially in the fall when foliage colors are at their peak.
• The lower overlook provides one of the best vantage points for viewing the New River Gorge Bridge.

7. Sandstone Falls Boardwalk and Island Loop Trail

The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk and Island Loop Trail offer a unique and easy hike in New River Gorge National Park.

Did you know Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall on the New River! 😯

This short, family-friendly trail winds through small islands connected by wooden boardwalks and bridges, providing great vantage points for the cascading waters of Sandstone Falls.

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Sandstone Falls Trailhead is located off River Road (WV Route 26), about nine miles from Hinton, West Virginia.

The parking lot is gravel and can accommodate a fair number of vehicles.

Vault toilets are available at the trailhead.

River Road is narrow in some places – drive slowly and use extra caution.

🥾 Sandstone Falls and Island Loop Trail Description

The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk is a short, wheelchair-accessible trail that leads to multiple observation decks, offering breathtaking views of Sandstone Falls.

This waterfall stretches 1,500 feet across and drops 10 to 25 feet over sandstone ledges.

The Island Loop Trail is a 0.5-mile loop that winds through forest and riverside terrain, and around the largest island in the area.

The island was once farmed, grazed, and timbered, with a grist mill operating in the area.

Today, hikers can see how the land is returning to its natural state.

Interpretive signs along the route provide insights into the area’s rich natural and cultural history.

✅ Pro Tips!

• The falls are especially beautiful after heavy rainfall when the water volume is high.
• The boardwalk is wheelchair-friendly, making it a great stop for all visitors.
• Keep an eye out for herons, bald eagles, and other wildlife along the trail.
• River Road is narrow and winding – take it slow and watch for oncoming vehicles.

8. Tunnel Trail

📍 Trailhead Location and Parking

The Tunnel Trailhead is located near the Grandview Visitor Center by the Grandview Main Overlook.

A large parking lot provides ample space for vehicles, and vault toilets are available at the trailhead.

🥾 Tunnel Trail Description

The Tunnel Trail is Grandview’s shortest and shadiest trail, making it the perfect spot to cool off on a hot day.

The moist earth, lush vegetation, and cold-to-the-touch sandstone walls create a refreshingly cool atmosphere as you walk through this scenic forest trail.

This 0.5-mile loop features unique rock formations, including several (closed) tunnels and an impressive rock overhang.

✅ Pro Tips!

• This trail is nice on hot summer days, as the natural rock formations and dense forest provide shade and cool air.
• While the main attraction, the tunnel, is closed for safety, you can still peek inside to get those creepy dark tunnel vibes.
• The trail can be slippery after rain due to the damp sandstone – wear sturdy, grippy footwear.

Best Hikes in New River Gorge Trail Map

Best Time to Hike in New River Gorge

New River Gorge National Park is a year-round hiking destination, with each season offering a unique experience.

Here’s what to expect throughout the year.

Seasonal Considerations

☃️ Winter (December–February): If you’re looking for solitude, winter is the perfect time to explore the national park.

Snow creates a magical landscape, and without the leaves, the views are even more expansive.

However, icy patches can make some sections tricky – especially near cliffs and along steps.

Wear proper footwear with good traction and dress in warm layers!

🌷 Spring (March–May): Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers make spring a fantastic time to hike.

However, spring rains can lead to muddy conditions, and morning fog may occasionally obscure the overlooks – though it also adds an eerie beauty to the gorge.

I love the occasional eerie vibes. 👻

☀️ Summer (June–August): Lush, green forests provide plenty of shade, but the humidity can make midday hiking challenging.

Stick to early morning or evening hikes to beat the heat, and bring plenty of water.

This is also peak season for visitors, so expect more crowds on the trails!

🍂 Fall (September–November): Arguably the best time to hike in New River Gorge, fall brings crisp air and stunning foliage, painting the gorge in vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold.

Mid-to-late October is peak season for leaf-peeping, so trails will be busier, particularly on weekends.

Sunrises and Sunsets in New River Gorge

New River Gorge is known for its jaw-dropping sunrises and sunsets, making early morning and evening hikes a must!

To catch an incredible sunrise, head to Diamond Point Overlook or Grandview Main Overlook, and for sunset check out Long Point Overlook, Canyon Rim Overlook, or Sandstone Falls.

No matter the season, catching a sunrise or sunset in the gorge is an experience you won’t forget!

Hiking in New River Gorge: Tips + Packing List

New River Gorge 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: Always check the forecast before heading out – rain can make trails muddy and slippery, fog can block stunning views, and winter conditions can make overlooks dangerous.

3. Wear the Proper Footwear: Some trails are quite rocky, and the overlooks can be slippery after rain or in snow – wear hiking shoes or boots with good traction!

4. Be Cautious Near Cliffs: Many overlooks have steep drop-offs with no guardrails – keep a safe distance from the edge, especially in icy or wet conditions.

5. Respect Climbers: New River Gorge is a popular area for rock climbing – be mindful of climbers when exploring near cliffs and avoid knocking rocks over the edge.

6. Check for Closures: Some trails, roads, and overlooks may close temporarily due to maintenance, weather conditions, or high-water levels – check the NPS.gov website before heading out.

7. Do not enter historical structures or mines: Many historical structures and mines in the park are unstable and unsafe.

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

9. 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.

10. 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.

New River Gorge 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 many of the trailheads 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
  • 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

New River Gorge Hiking Itinerary

New River Gorge National Park may not be the biggest national park, but at 70,000 acres, it’s still vast – and exploring it efficiently takes some planning!

Driving from the northernmost part of the park to the southern end is a long haul, so to save time and gas, I’ve put together a strategic 3-day hiking itinerary that breaks the park into regions based on visitor center locations.

This way, you can explore one area each day without spending too much time on the road.

I’m also working on a massive, in-depth itinerary guide that will cover everything – from dining recommendations to epic adventures like whitewater rafting – so stay tuned for that!

For now, this itinerary focuses on the best hiking trails in New River Gorge, ensuring you experience the park’s most breathtaking overlooks, scenic routes, and must-see spots in just three days.

My husband and I have hiked every trail on this list, and we can confidently say they’re all worth it – but squeezing them in on a short trip can be tricky.

This itinerary will help you make the most of your time and hit the highlights!

Day 1 – Canyon Rim Area

• Hike the Endless Wall Trail to Diamond Point Overlook for sunrise.
  • Start from the Fern Creek Trailhead for 2.2 miles out-and-back.
  • Incredible sunrise spot with stunning views of the gorge.
• Check out the Canyon Rim Overlook.
  • The Canyon Rim Visitor Center is located near the overlook.
  • Great spot for a closeup look at the New River Gorge Bridge.
• Hike the Long Point Trail to Long Point Overlook.
  • If you feel up for an evening hike, watch sunset from the overlook!
  • My favorite spot to see the New River Gorge Bridge.

The total mileage for this day adds up to about 5.6 miles with these trails being easy to moderate in difficulty.

Day 2 – Grandview Area

• Watch sunrise at the Grandview Main Overlook.
  • This is a short 0.1 mile walk from the parking lot to the overlook.
• Hike the Castle Rock and Grandview Rim Trails to Turkey Spur Rock.
  • Start hiking on the Castle Rock Trail and take a right onto the Grandview Rim Trail to reach the Turkey Spur Overlook.
  • Castle Rock Trail has incredible rock formations, Grandview Rim Trail has beautiful overlooks, and Turkey Spur Rock also has a stunning overlook.
• Hike the Tunnel Trail
  • This short hike includes (closed) caves and cool rock formations.

The total mileage for this day adds up to about 4.7 miles with these trails being moderately challenging.

Day 3 – Mining Site and Waterfall

Disclaimer: I’m about to contradict myself. 🤭

While it’s best to explore one area at a time (or at least stick to nearby regions), to experience them all, sometimes you have to sacrifice a bit of time for driving.

But trust me, the views and trails are worth it.

As long as you’re not driving up and down and all-around New River Gorge each day!

Gas prices are too high for all that.

Day 3 Hiking Itinerary:

• Hike the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk and Island Loop Trail.
• Hike the Kaymoor Miners Trail.
  • Explore Kaymoor One Mine and Kaymoor Bottom and read the educational plaques to learn more about the history of West Virginia’s mining era.

The total mileage for this day adds up to about 2.5 miles with these trails being easy (Sandstone Falls) to challenging (Kaymoor Miners Trail).

More Things to Do in New River Gorge

Besides hiking amazing trails, there are many other exciting things to do in New River Gorge National Park!

1. Whitewater Rafting – Experience some of the best rapids in the country on the New River, with options ranging from family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping Class V rapids.

2. Rock Climbing – With over 1,400 climbing routes, New River Gorge is a world-class destination for climbers of all skill levels.

3. Camping – Stay overnight at free primitive campsites or nearby campgrounds for an immersive outdoor experience.

4. Swimming – Cool off at Glade Creek Falls, one of the park’s most picturesque swimming spots.

5. Explore Historic Sites – Visit old mining towns, coke ovens, and sites like Thurmond, Kaymoor, and Nuttallburg to step back in time.

6. Wildlife Watching – Spot deer, bald eagles, and even black bears while exploring the park’s diverse habitats.

7. Scenic Drives – Take in the views along Fayette Station Road, a winding drive with incredible overlooks and historic remnants.

Conclusion

New River Gorge National Park is packed with incredible hiking trails, each offering a unique way to experience the park’s beauty, breathtaking overlooks, and rich history.

Whether you’re chasing sunrise at Diamond Point Overlook, admiring the New River Gorge Bridge from Long Point Overlook, or tackling the steep but rewarding Kaymoor Miners Trail, there’s no shortage of epic adventures at New River Gorge.

With so many must-hike trails, it’s impossible to see it all in just one visit – so don’t be surprised if you find yourself planning a return trip! 😉

Get ready to experience the best hikes in New River Gorge and explore one of the most stunning landscapes in the Appalachian Mountains!

If this guide inspires you to hike any of these incredible trails in New River Gorge National Park, I’d love to hear about your adventure.

Leave a comment and share your experience!

⛰️ Explore more of West Virginia:

• Best Hikes in West Virginia