Photo by Ed Rehebinfor The Register-Herald
Sandstone Falls
Sandstone
Sandstone Falls is the largest waterfall in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve . Its span is over 1,500 feet . Divided by a series of islands , the river drops 10 to 25 feet . Geologically , the falls marks the transition zone of the New River from a broad river of large bottomlands , to a narrow mountain river roaring through a deep boulder strewn V- shaped gorge . The scenic views at this falls are ADA accessible . There are two roads you can take to view the falls . Take Route 20 south from I-64 at the community of Sandstone , or ten miles upstream from the town of Hinton along River Road , the park ’ s only scenic riverside drive . Both these routes offer several overlooks , historic sites , natural areas , trails , and river access points .
Sandstone Falls Overlook
Length : 0.1 mi / 0.16 km . Difficulty : Moderate . Trail type : Hiking only . See all of Sandstone Falls at this scenic overlook just off of the highway . This short , gravel walkway descends briefly from the parking lot to a view of the falls and river , 600 feet below .
Big Branch Trail
Length : 2.0 miles / 2.74 km ( Round-trip ). Difficulty : Strenuous . Trail type : Hiking only . On the west side of the river at Brooks Falls is the Big Branch Trail . This trail creates a 2 mile loop that is especially scenic in the early spring when wildflowers are in bloom . It can be a great place to see the early bloomers like trout lilies , spring beauties , toothwort , and bloodroot .
Island Loop Trail
Length : 0.5 miles / 0.8 km ( Round-trip ). Difficulty : Easy . Trail type : Hiking only . The Island Loop Trail is an easy ½ mile trail that loops around the largest island below Sandstone Falls . The island was once farmed , grazed , and timbered , and a grist mill once operated here . Hikers can observe the natural succession as the old fields transition back to forest .
Trails source : National Park Service
DESTINATIONS � JUNE ’ 24 � 13