The New River region is home to a few beautiful waterfalls. The largest waterfall is Sandstone Falls, which can be viewed from bridges, boardwalk trails, and other viewpoints. There is also a great beach where you can enjoy a view of the upper falls. However, it is important to note that the upper falls are very dangerous, and you may want to stay off the water if you’re unsure of your level of fitness. There are many signs warning about drowning, so take caution when you visit.
Sandstone Falls
If you are a lover of waterfalls, you must check out the impressive Sandstone Falls, the tallest waterfall on the New River. This stunning waterfall spans over 1500 feet and has a variety of beautiful views. A boardwalk provides access to the falls, and visitors will find several different points of view along the river.
For photographers, the falls are perfect for shooting. There is an easy walk to the falls from the parking area, and you can even take some great shots from the top. Just be careful not to fall in, as the water can be quite deep and could cover your waist.
You can also get more information about the park at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center. The center features information about the geology and history of the area. It has a video about the canyon and also offers an interactive museum. There are also some nice views of the New River from here.
Hiking in the park is another way to enjoy the area. The New River Gorge National Park has over 100 miles of hiking trails to enjoy. Most trails are short and easy to navigate, but many can be connected to make a longer hike. In addition to the hiking trails, you can also check out the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk, which gives you a great view of the falls. The boardwalk also connects to the Island Loop Trail.
Fishing on the New River is another popular activity. The river is home to several species of fish, including bass, carp, crappie, and muskellunge. Visitors can also see rare birds and mammals that inhabit the river.
Endless Wall trail
The Endless Wall trail is located near the main visitor center of New River Gorge National Park. It’s a relatively easy hike that offers amazing scenery. It’s also a great way to see the scenery in the morning when the fog hasn’t yet cleared. If you have a day to spare, consider adding this trail to your itinerary.
The Endless Wall trail features two trailheads: Fern Creek and Nuttall. The trailheads are about one mile apart. Most hikers will choose to walk a loop on the trail, which means that they’ll need to walk about half a mile between them.
Another great hiking trail in the area is the Cliff Side Trail. This trail runs alongside sandstone cliffs with spectacular views of the New River Gorge. The trail also provides views of the nearby Kaymoor coal mine and the bridge over the New River.
Campgrounds are free to use in the New River Gorge National Recreation Area. While some campgrounds don’t offer hookups or water, all are first come, first serve. The Arrowhead Bike Farm offers campsites in the park, and several nearby state parks offer cabins and park lodges. There are also adventure resorts that offer different lodging options.
If you like rock climbing, the Endless Wall trail is also a great place to try it. The gorge is home to 1,400 climbing routes. There are many options in this popular destination, from easy to challenging routes. You can hire a local outfitter to take you on this amazing adventure.
Hawks Nest State Park Lodge
Hawks Nest State Park is a beautiful destination located along the New River, just north of New River Gorge National Park. Guests will enjoy the spectacular vista of the New River and the surrounding areas, including plenty of wildlife. The park is also home to the Hawks Nest Aerial Tramway, which transports guests from the lodge to the bottom of the gorge, where they can take a jetboat ride on the river.
The lodge is part of a 270-acre recreational area that includes hiking trails, an aerial tramway, and a challenging whitewater rafting river. The lodge offers 31 guest rooms, fine dining, and ample conference and meeting space. Guests will also love the lodge’s fireplace and its location on Hawks Nest Lake.
Nearby attractions include the scenic Ansted Falls, which is 15 feet high and located near a former mill and railroad bridge. You can also check out Mill Creek Falls, which drops 20 feet, and Upper Mill Creek Falls, which drops 10 feet. Guests can also hike the Cliff Side Trail, a 1.7-mile hike that follows the Nutall sandstone cliffs and connects to a waterfall along Turkey Creek. The hike also offers views of the Hawks Nest Dam.
The Hawks Nest Overlook is a great spot to take in the views of the New River and Hawks Nest Dam. Alternatively, you can hike the Cliff Side Trail, a 1.8-mile loop that offers spectacular views of the New River. This is similar to the Castle Rock Trail.
Nearby state parks also offer camping. The Hawks Nest State Park Lodge in New River is the perfect starting point for waterfalling in Fayette County. You can take the tram up and down the hill, or you can hike the Cliffside Trail, which runs parallel to Turkey Creek. It has several falls that you can explore on foot.
Glade Creek Grist Mill
Glade Creek Grist Mill is one of the most iconic destinations in the New River Gorge. Located on the banks of the river, the fully functioning replica of Cooper’s Mill is the perfect backdrop for pictures. Founded in 1972, this attraction is a favorite with locals and visitors alike. In addition to tours of the mill, you can also enjoy whitewater rafting, zip lining, and guided hiking.
The Glade Creek Grist Mill is open year-round, although it can get quite busy during the peak fall foliage season. Parking is limited in the area, so plan ahead to find a spot. If you are traveling with pets, they must be on leashes or restrained. Make sure to clean up after them, as well.
Another popular spot for taking pictures is the Glade Creek Grist Mill, which sits above a waterfall and a reflecting pool. The fall foliage makes for excellent photo opportunities. During limited hours, you can even fly a drone to capture the spectacular scene.
If you’re visiting the New River Gorge area, plan your trip during the fall foliage season. The foliage is best in the second week of October. The area’s fall foliage is later in the year than the gorge itself, with peak foliage around the second week of October. The New River Gorge offers many opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, and camping.
The New River Gorge National Park is another destination in the area. A short drive from Hinton will bring you to this historic site. You can also enjoy fishing and hiking in the park. You can also visit Hawks Nest State Park for spectacular views of the New River. The park is also home to an African American Heritage Auto Tour.
Arrowhead Bike Farm and Campground
Arrowhead Bike Farm and Campground in the New River region is a popular camping spot among mountain bikers. It’s conveniently located near popular put-ins and trailheads in the New River Gorge. The campground offers wooded and group campsites with electric hookups and water. It has also recently added additional RV sites.
Arrowhead Bike Farm and Campground in the New River area features full-day Trek bike rentals, as well as hiking and biking trails. It also has a restaurant, a full-service bike shop, and a camping site. There is even an aerial tramway for the best views of the New River Gorge.
Arrowhead Bike Farm and Campground has a cafe and a taproom. The cafe is currently revamping its menu to include more local cuisine and craft beer. It will also feature breakfast items, sandwiches, and barbecue dishes. Food and beverage director Adena Joy has years of experience in the restaurant industry, and plans to add seasonal fare to the menu.
The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, having formed 320 million years ago, predating the Appalachian Mountain range. The river was designated as the New River Gorge National River in 1978, and offers some of the country’s best whitewater. The area is also popular for rock climbers, mountain bikers, and hikers. In December 2020, the New River Gorge will become America’s 63rd national park.