Rarely. Light foot traffic except summer weekends. You'll likely have peace.

No. One loop, well-marked. Hard to get lost.

Summer mosquitoes near the river. Repellent advised Jun-Aug.

Yes, leashed. No special restrictions.

Island Loop Trail - 0.5mi Easy Boardwalk

Q: Is the boardwalk slippery?

After rain, yes. Wear good shoes. Rails keep you safe.

Q: How early can I start?

Anytime. Park open 24 hours. Parking has no gates.

Distance

0.5 mi

Est. Time

30-45 minutes

Route Type

Loop

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Year-round. Spring (Apr-May) and fall (Sep-Oct) ideal.

Overview

About This Trail

Walk the boardwalk loop around Sandstone Falls Island for a relaxed riverside stroll. This beginner-friendly circuit offers river views and riparian forest without any technical challenge. Expect flat terrain, shaded sections, and river soundscapes. Perfect warm-up or cool-down trail.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Walk in the park

Trail Highlights

River gorge at Sandstone Falls. Small island surrounded by whitewater and forested banks.

Insider Tips

• Best photos mid-morning when light hits the falls just right. • Watch for deer at dawn. • River sound is loudest near falls—move downstream for quiet.

Best Season to Hike

Year-round. Spring (Apr-May) and fall (Sep-Oct) ideal.

Hiking Tips

Wear sturdy shoes—boardwalk can be slippery when wet.
Bring a camera for river reflections.
No special gear needed.
Stay on marked paths.
Cell service spotty near the gorge—download offline maps if concerned.

Family Info

Ideal for young children and seniors. No scrambling, no exposure. Railing throughout. Bathrooms nearby.

What Hikers Say

Hikers call it a 'quick riverside stroll.' Perfect for families and beginners. Zero technical challenge.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.5 miles

Duration: 30-45 minutes

Difficulty: Walk in the park

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Constructed boardwalk

Getting There

Trailhead: Sandstone Falls Boardwalk area parking, off US-60 near Fayetteville, WV

Parking: Medium lot, ~30 spaces

Fills Up: Rarely fills. Park anytime.

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required. Park is free to access 24 hours.

Fees: Free

Shuttle Available

No shuttle needed.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes, on-leash.

Biking: No bikes on boardwalk.

Trail Markers: Well-marked boardwalk, painted arrows.

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: River accessible but not for drinking. Bring water.

Shade: Partial shade from riparian canopy.

Cell Service: Spotty to none depending on carrier.

Hazards:

Boardwalk can be slippery after rain or morning dew. Railings prevent falls into river below. No other hazards.

Emergency: New River Gorge Visitor Center: (304) 465-0508. Emergency: 911.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Ghost town

Peak Times: Midday on weekends, but still light traffic. Trail rarely congested.

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Flat boardwalk

Family Notes:

Ideal for young children and seniors. No scrambling, no exposure. Railing throughout. Bathrooms nearby.

Nearby Facilities

Visitor center 0.5 mi away. Food, lodging in Fayetteville 5 mi south.

What Hikers Say

Hikers call it a 'quick riverside stroll.' Perfect for families and beginners. Zero technical challenge.

FAQs

Is this suitable for kids?

Yes. Flat boardwalk, railings, bathroom nearby. Kids 4+ handle it fine.

How crowded is it?

Do I need a map?

Is it buggy?

Can I bring my dog?

Is the boardwalk slippery?

How early can I start?

📖 National Park Service — Island Loop Trail (official page) (checked 2026-07-11) 📖 National Park Service — New River Gorge National Park & Preserve fees, hours & conditions (checked 2026-07-05) 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

Visit Website