The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is home to more than 100 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, along towering cliffs, and down into the heart of the canyon. Whether you are searching for a short scenic walk or a challenging adventure, the New River Gorge offers some of the most rewarding hiking experiences in the Appalachian Mountains.
Visitors who explore the park on foot quickly discover that hiking provides a completely different perspective of the gorge compared to scenic overlooks or rafting trips. Trails reveal hidden waterfalls, historic mining ruins, and quiet forest paths where wildlife sightings are common.
Many travelers combine hiking with rafting adventures through West Virginia Adventures, allowing them to experience both the rim of the canyon and the river flowing through it.
Below are some of the best hiking trails in the New River Gorge.
Endless Wall Trail
The Endless Wall Trail is often ranked among the best hiking trails in the eastern United States. This trail follows the rim of the gorge and provides spectacular views of the New River far below.
The hike is relatively moderate, making it accessible to most visitors. Along the trail, hikers encounter several scenic overlooks where sandstone cliffs drop dramatically into the canyon.
One of the most famous viewpoints along the trail is Diamond Point, which offers breathtaking views of the river as it curves through the gorge.
The combination of cliffside scenery and peaceful forest paths makes the Endless Wall Trail one of the most memorable hikes in the park.
Long Point Trail
The Long Point Trail leads to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the New River Gorge. This moderate hike winds through a forest of hardwood trees before reaching a rocky outcrop overlooking the canyon.
At the end of the trail, hikers are rewarded with a stunning view of the New River Gorge Bridge stretching across the canyon.
This viewpoint is one of the most photographed locations in the park and is especially beautiful during sunrise and sunset.
Because the trail is relatively easy to follow, it is popular with both experienced hikers and first-time visitors.
Kaymoor Miners Trail
The Kaymoor Miners Trail offers a unique combination of hiking and history. This challenging trail descends into the gorge to the remains of an old coal mining operation.
The trail includes more than 800 wooden steps that lead down into the canyon. At the bottom, hikers can explore the ruins of coal processing buildings and mining structures.
Interpretive signs explain the history of the mining community that once thrived in the gorge.
Although the climb back up the steps can be strenuous, the historical significance of the site makes the effort worthwhile.
Grandview Rim Trail
Located in the southern section of the park, the Grandview Rim Trail offers spectacular views of the New River as it bends dramatically through the canyon.
The trail passes through quiet forests and open overlooks that provide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
During the fall foliage season, the Grandview area becomes one of the most beautiful places in the entire park.
Sandstone Falls Boardwalk
For visitors looking for an easy walk with incredible scenery, the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk is an excellent option.
This short trail allows visitors to walk along the river and view Sandstone Falls, one of the largest waterfalls on the New River.
The boardwalk provides several viewpoints where visitors can watch the powerful water cascading over massive sandstone ledges.
Wildlife and Nature Along the Trails
Hiking in the New River Gorge provides opportunities to encounter a wide variety of wildlife.
Common sightings include:
- White-tailed deer
- Red-tailed hawks
- Wild turkeys
- Songbirds
- Turtles near streams
The forests surrounding the gorge are also home to diverse plant life including rhododendron, mountain laurel, and hardwood trees that create spectacular fall foliage displays.
Combining Hiking with Other Adventures
Many visitors choose to combine hiking with other outdoor activities during their trip.
One popular option is to spend the morning hiking along the rim of the gorge and the afternoon rafting through the canyon.
Trips with West Virginia Adventures allow visitors to see the gorge from the river while experiencing the thrill of navigating whitewater rapids.
This combination of hiking and rafting provides a well-rounded outdoor adventure.
Exploring the Gorge on Foot
Hiking remains one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of the New River Gorge.
Each trail offers its own unique perspective of the canyon, from dramatic cliffside views to quiet forest paths.
For travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration, the hiking trails of the New River Gorge provide endless opportunities for adventure.
