The best hikes in New River Gorge National Park range from quick clifftop overlooks to knee-testing descents into one of the oldest river canyons in North America. West Virginia's newest national park packs dramatic sandstone cliffs, whitewater views, and reclaimed coal-mining history into a surprisingly compact trail network. Below is a trail-by-trail guide to the standout routes, how hard each one is, and how to link them into a great day on the rim and down in the gorge.
Which New River Gorge trail has the best views?
Long Point Trail is the crowd favorite for a reason. This roughly 3.2-mile round-trip rolls through rhododendron forest before ending on a rocky point with a head-on view of the New River Gorge Bridge arcing 876 feet above the water. It is moderate, mostly flat, and pays off with the single most photographed vista in the park. For an easier alternative, the Grandview area rim trails deliver a sweeping horseshoe bend of the river with far less effort. You can find both areas mapped on the official New River Gorge park page.
What are the best short and family-friendly hikes?
Not every great hike here demands a full day. The Canyon Rim Boardwalk near the main visitor center is a quarter-mile of stairs and platforms leading to two overlooks of the bridge and gorge. The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk, at the park's southern end, is an easy stroll over the widest waterfall on the New River. Grandview's Main Overlook is paved and just steps from the parking area, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or mobility. These low-effort options are a smart way to sample the scenery before committing to a longer trail.
What are the best challenging hikes into the gorge?
To feel the depth of the canyon, drop below the rim. The Endless Wall Trail (about 2.4 miles round trip) traces the top of towering cliffs to Diamond Point, where you will often see rock climbers roped up on the sandstone. The Kaymoor Miners Trail is the park's toughest short hike: 821 steps descend to the abandoned Kaymoor mine site, and every one of them must be climbed back out. Pair these with Long Point for a full, varied day that captures both the rim and the historic heart of the gorge.
When is the best time to hike New River Gorge?
Spring and fall are ideal, with mild temperatures and, in October, some of the best foliage in the Appalachians. Summer hiking is very doable but humid, so start early and carry plenty of water. On the third Saturday in October, Bridge Day briefly opens the catwalk beneath the bridge and draws big crowds, so plan trailhead parking accordingly. Always check the current-year rules and any seasonal closures on the park website before you go.
How do I get to the trailheads?
Most northern trails, including Long Point and Endless Wall, cluster near the Canyon Rim Visitor Center off US-19 near Lansing. Grandview and Sandstone Falls sit farther south and are reached from separate exits, so group your hikes by region to avoid long drives. New River Gorge pairs naturally with a wider West Virginia and Mid-Atlantic road trip; see nearby options on our West Virginia national parks guide, browse every park on the PeepTrip parks hub, or compare it with the ridgeline trails at Shenandoah National Park and the misty summits of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
FAQ
How long is the Endless Wall Trail?
The Endless Wall Trail is about 2.4 miles round trip if you hike out to Diamond Point and back. Many hikers make it a loop of roughly 2.9 miles by walking a short section of road between the Fern Creek and Nuttall parking areas.
Can you hike to the New River Gorge Bridge?
You cannot hike across the bridge deck except during Bridge Day in October, but the Canyon Rim Boardwalk and Long Point Trail both deliver excellent views of it. Long Point gives the classic head-on perspective of the full span.
Are dogs allowed on New River Gorge trails?
Yes, leashed dogs are permitted on most New River Gorge trails, though they are not allowed on some boardwalks and structures. Check the current-year pet rules on the park website before your visit.
Do you need a permit to hike in New River Gorge?
No permit is required for day hiking, and there is no general park entrance fee. Backcountry camping and climbing have their own guidelines, so confirm the current-year regulations if you plan to stay overnight.