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Sandstone Falls Loop

RECOMMENDED ROUTE
Easy
 4.8 (9)
  1. Areas
  2. WV
  3. …Southern W. Virginia
  4. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve
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“A peaceful hike through reclaimed farmlands, ending at stunning views of Sandstone Falls. ”

Hunter R
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Map Key

1.1

Miles

1.7

KM

Loop

1,297' 395 m

High

1,279' 390 m

Low

31' 9 m

Up

31' 9 m

Down

1%

Avg Grade (1°)

6%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

Family Friendly This hike's gentle grades, manageable length, and spectacular views make it a wonderful option for families with children.

Overview

The Sandstone Falls Loop is a short, scenic loop through historic farmland that ends at viewpoints of the dazzling Sandstone Falls.

Need to Know

Be sure to bring your camera on this hike, as Sandstone Falls provides wonderful photo opportunities.

Description

From the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk Parking Area, hike along the path a few hundred meters before reaching a junction with the Island Loop Trail. Head north along the Island Loop Trail, traveling clockwise through farmlands undergoing a natural transition back to woodlands.

Upon reaching the junction with the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk, head south across a wooden bridge onto an island situated in the middle of the New River. Follow the boardwalk to its end, at which point visitors can expect fantastic views of Sandstone Falls.

After enjoying the falls, return along the boardwalk to the junction with the Island Loop Trail, heading west to return to the parking area.

History & Background

The area along the Island Loop Trail was originally cut from the surrounding forest to be used as both pasture for livestock and fields for cultivating crops. However, after farming ending on this property, nearby forests began to reclaim this area. Today, reclamation is ongoing, and will continue until the forest reaches maturity.

Contacts

Land Manager: NPS - New River Gorge

Shared By:

Hunter R
Full Details

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 9 votes

#1

in New River Gorge National Park and Preserve

#1015

Overall
  4.8 from 9 votes
5 Star
78%
4 Star
22%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in New River Gorge Nation…

#7

in West Virginia

#1,015

Overall
8 Views Last Month
2,913 Since May 31, 2016
Easy
75%
13%
13%
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Photos

Beautiful easy trail, wildflowers, river views, birds. Very enjoyable.
Apr 30, 2021 near Hinton, WV
Just a fraction of Sandstone Falls.
Mar 4, 2021 near Hinton, WV

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Weather

Current Trail Conditions

Unknown
Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Nov 27, 2023
Kristy Van
Nov 9, 2023
Debbie School
Oct 28, 2023
Melody Davis
Oct 21, 2023
Kimberly Groppe
Aug 6, 2023
Russ Huth
14h 00m
Oct 9, 2022
Tom Herr
Great hike mainly in the forest along the river. The boardwalk allows for great views of the river and falls. Worth the drive! 1.1mi
Oct 4, 2022
Maura McLay
Sep 29, 2022
Cheylan Harris
1.1mi — 0h 45m

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