Stroll on the Sandstone Boardwalk

River views without the grit. 1/4-mile paved boardwalk, year-round, zero elevation gain.

Trail

Trail

The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk is a 1/4-mile self-guided walk along a wooden boardwalk with unobstructed views of the New River and Sandstone Falls. This is not a lung-buster—it's an accessible stroll for all ages and abilities, ideal for families and photographers seeking varied light throughout the seasons. Expect river scenery, wildlife-watching opportunities, and zero technical challenge.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
0.25
Route Type
Out-and-back (main boardwalk). Optional: 1/4-mile off-boardwalk trail loop.
Difficulty Level
Walk in the park
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
0.25
Route Type
Out-and-back (main boardwalk). Optional: 1/4-mile off-boardwalk trail loop.
Difficulty Level
Walk in the park
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Estimated Time
30 minutes
Trail Surface
Wooden boardwalk
Trail Features
  • River views
  • Wildlife watching
  • Photography opportunities
  • Boardwalk access
Trail Highlights
Year-round river views with photography angles and wildlife watching from a fully accessible boardwalk overlooking Sandstone Falls.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Sandstone Falls Boardwalk Parking Area
Parking Lot Size
Multiple spaces including handicapped-accessible parking adjacent to boardwalk entrance
Shuttle Required
No

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
No
Permit Details
No permits required
Fees
Free
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
None—open year-round

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
No
Water Sources
Unknown—no drinking water sources noted at trailhead. Carry what you need.
Accessibility
Fully accessible. Flat wooden boardwalk throughout, handicapped-accessible parking spaces immediately adjacent to entrance, picnic tables nearby. 1/4-mile paved boardwalk suitable for wheelchair users and mobility aids.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Slippery boardwalk when wet
  • Boardwalk edges
Hazard Details
Wooden boardwalk can be slippery when wet. Stay centered and watch for uneven boards. Small children and older adults should exercise caution near boardwalk edges.
Best Season
Year-round
Best Time To Visit
Year-round. Lighting varies significantly by season and time of day—early morning offers soft, warm tones; midday brings high-contrast gorge shots; dusk is dramatic. Visit during visitor center hours (9am–5pm daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years) to access nearby facilities and information.
Tips Advice
  • Tighten your footing on the wooden boardwalk, especially if it's damp—wet wood is slippery.
  • Bring a camera; photographers favor this spot for the changing river light throughout the day.
  • Leashed dogs welcome; respect the 6-foot-or-shorter rule and pick up after your pet.
  • The boardwalk can be slippery when wet; watch your step near edges.
  • Start early or late for optimal photo light; avoid peak midday glare.

More details

Park Area
Sandstone Falls
Trail Markers
Well-marked and maintained
Dogs Allowed
Yes—on leash, 6 feet or shorter. Owners must pick up after pets.
Emergency Contacts
Sandstone Visitor Center (open 9am–5pm daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years). Park Headquarters: Glen Jean. In emergencies, call 911.
Map Recommended
No
Snow Dates
Unknown—boardwalk typically remains passable year-round, but winter ice conditions may affect safety.
Mud Season
Not applicable—paved boardwalk drains well year-round
Insider Tips
  • Photographers: Return at different times of day—dawn offers warm tones, midday brings high-contrast gorge lighting, dusk is dramatic.
  • Wildlife: Bring binoculars; river birds and occasional deer are common.
  • The optional 1/4-mile off-boardwalk trail loop adds variety if you want slightly more terrain.
  • Check visitor center hours before arrival to coordinate with facility access.
Family Friendly Notes
Ideal for families, young children, older adults, and anyone with mobility considerations. Zero elevation gain, self-paced, flat terrain, accessible parking. Bring water for young children; the boardwalk has limited shade in sections.
Nearby Facilities
Sandstone Visitor Center (9am–5pm daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years) with restrooms and information. Picnic tables at parking area. Park Headquarters at Glen Jean.
Review Summary
Visitors report this boardwalk is a go-to for photographers and families seeking accessible river views. Most praise the flat, paved surface for all ages and fitness levels, year-round accessibility, and proximity to the river. The convenient handicapped parking and picnic amenities make it a popular quick-stop destination.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this suitable for wheelchairs or mobility aids?

Yes, fully. The wooden boardwalk is flat and paved throughout the 1/4-mile walk, with handicapped-accessible parking immediately adjacent to the entrance.

How long does the boardwalk walk take?

30 minutes for the main boardwalk. Add another 30 minutes if you take the optional off-boardwalk trail loop.

Are restrooms available at the trailhead?

Not at the boardwalk parking area itself. The Sandstone Visitor Center (approximately 1–2 miles away, open 9am–5pm daily, closed holidays) has facilities.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes. Dogs must be on a leash 6 feet or shorter, and owners must pick up after them.

What's the best time to visit for photography?

Year-round, but light varies by season and time. Dawn and dusk offer soft, warm tones; midday provides high-contrast gorge lighting. Revisit at different times to capture variety.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee?

No to both. The park is free to enter, and no permit is required for the boardwalk walk.

Bridge Trail

Short, steep, unforgiving. Views under the bridge make it worth the grit.

Town Loop Connector Trail

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Butcher Branch Trail

0.8-mile steep wooded connector with stream crossing. Gateway to Kaymoor trails and climbing area.

Canyon Rim Boardwalk

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Sources

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.