Long Point Trail, one of the most popular hikes in New River Gorge National Park, leads to an unforgettable view of the 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 fall, when the landscape is filled with vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold.
It’s also a fantastic spot for both sunrise and sunset!
Be aware that some mornings, thick fog rolls into the gorge, completely obscuring the view.
The trail itself is mostly a gentle walk through the woods, but the final stretch leading to the overlook is steep and rocky.
Be sure to use caution near the unprotected cliff edges at the Long Point Overlook.
Before you go, read my full guide about hiking Long Point Trail in New River Gorge!
In this guide you will find a trail map, parking details, hiking tips, and everything you need to know before hitting the trail.
Long Point Trail Overview: Trail Stats + Map
Long Point Trail Stats
Starting Point: Long Point Trailhead
Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 345 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Hiking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Hike Features: Long Point Overlook – best view of the New River Gorge Bridge
Long Point Trail Map
Long Point Trail Parking and Directions
The Long Point Trailhead features a spacious parking area that can accommodate approximately 25 to 30 vehicles.
Vault toilets are available near the trailhead.
Long Point Trail is one of the most popular hikes in New River Gorge, so if you’re visiting during peak season (spring through fall), be sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot.
When my husband and I hiked this trail for sunrise, sunset, or during the winter, we never had any trouble finding parking – it’s much quieter outside of peak hours and during the colder months!
🚗 Directions to the trailhead:
- From US 19, take WV-16 south through downtown Fayetteville.
- Turn left onto Gatewood Road, following signs for Kaymoor and Cunard.
- Continue for 1.9 miles, then turn left onto Newton Road.
- The trailhead parking lot is just 50 yards ahead on the left.
Best Time to Hike Long Point Trail
The Long Point 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.
The Long Point Overlook faces north, so it’s a nice spot to catch the golden hour glow at either sunrise or sunset.
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 Long Point 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 viewpoint even more scenic!
Just be cautious of snowy/icy conditions which can make the trail and overlook slippery.
Dress in layers, wear proper footwear, and be cautious near cliff edges!
Long Point Trail Sunrise vs Sunset
As I mentioned earlier, you can catch either sunrise or sunset from the Long Point Overlook.
Since the overlook faces north, you won’t see the sun rising or setting directly over the bridge, but you’ll still experience the golden-hour glow lighting up the gorge.
My husband and I have hiked to the Long Point Overlook for both sunrise and sunset, but luck wasn’t on our side either time.
For sunrise, thick fog rolled in, leaving us with only faint colors on the horizon.
And for sunset, the sky just didn’t put on much of a show – sometimes, conditions just don’t cooperate!
That said, no matter when you visit, the overlook offers an incredible view of the New River Gorge Bridge (unless it’s super foggy 😶🌫️).
If you’re into photography, timing your visit for golden hour at sunrise or sunset can give you the best lighting for capturing the scene.
Step-by-Step Long Point Trail Directions
Long Point Trail Directions
The hike from the Long Point Trailhead to the Long Point Overlook is straightforward and relatively easy.
From the trailhead, simply follow the Long Point Trail.
Along the way, you’ll encounter a few trail junctions – just keep an eye out for signs directing you toward the overlook.
The trail does become slightly more challenging once you reach the bicycle rack, where the path descends steeply for a short stretch.
It’ll soon flatten out onto a ridge leading to the overlook offering breathtaking views of the bridge and gorge!
The climb back up will get your heart pumping, but it’s brief.
After that, the trail levels out, making for an easy return to the trailhead.
🥾 Add more amazing hikes to your New River Gorge itinerary:
Alternate Routes to reach Long Point Overlook
If you’re looking for a longer hike or an alternate starting point, you can park at the Kaymoor Parking Lot and reach Long Point via either the Fayetteville Trail or Butcher Branch Trail:
- Fayetteville Trail Route: 4.5 miles roundtrip
- Butcher Branch Trail Route: 3 miles roundtrip
Both options offer a slightly different adventure while still leading to the spectacular Long Point Overlook!
Long Point Trail in New River Gorge: Hiking Tips + Packing List
Long Point 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 Long Point Trail is generally not a difficult hike, the exposed rock overlook can be slick and dangerous in rain, snow, or ice. Always check the forecast before heading out.
3. Wear the Proper Footwear: This trail has a tendency to become super muddy after rain or when snow melts, and the overlook can be slippery after rain or in snow – hiking shoes or boots with good traction are beneficial!
4. Watch Your Step at the Overlook: The Long Point Overlook does not have safety railings – always be mindful if exploring near the cliff edges.
5. Watch Out for Mountain Bikers: Mountain bikes are allowed on the trail except for the final 0.2 miles leading to the overlook – a bike rack is available where riders must continue on foot.
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 Long Point 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.
Long Point 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 the 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
Long Point Trail and Long Point Overlook Photos
Conclusion
Hiking the Long Point Trail in New River Gorge National Park is a must for anyone looking to experience one of the most breathtaking overlooks in the region.
This easy to moderate, well-marked trail offers a rewarding journey through lush forests before opening up to a stunning panoramic view of the New River Gorge Bridge.
Whether you’re visiting for sunrise, sunset, or a midday adventure, the overlook never fails to impress.
While the final stretch is a bit steep, the effort is well worth it for the incredible vantage point at the end.
If you’re exploring the New River Gorge, this hike should definitely be on your list!
If this guide inspires you to hike the Long Point Trail in New River Gorge, I’d love to hear about your adventure.
Leave a comment and share your experience!
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