Island Loop Trail - 0.5mi Easy Boardwalk

Trailhead sign that reads, "Island Loop Trail" with trail leading into forest

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.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 0.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Walk in the park
Elevation Gain Feet: 0

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 0.5
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty Level: Walk in the park
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
Trail Surface: Constructed boardwalk
Trail Features: Sandstone Falls views
River gorge
Riparian forest
Boardwalk
Island setting
Trail Highlights: River gorge at Sandstone Falls. Small island surrounded by whitewater and forested banks.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: Sandstone Falls Boardwalk area parking, off US-60 near Fayetteville, WV
Parking Lot Size: Medium lot, ~30 spaces
Parking Fill Time: Rarely fills. Park anytime.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle needed.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required. Park is free to access 24 hours.
Fees: Free
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: None. Park open 24/7.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: River accessible but not for drinking. Bring water.
Accessibility: Flat boardwalk

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Wet boardwalk slipping hazard
River drop-off (low risk, railing present)
Hazard Details: Boardwalk can be slippery after rain or morning dew. Railings prevent falls into river below. No other hazards.
Cell Service: Spotty to none depending on carrier.
Crowd Level: Ghost town
Peak Crowd Times: Midday on weekends, but still light traffic. Trail rarely congested.
Best Season: Year-round. Spring (Apr-May) and fall (Sep-Oct) ideal.
Best Time To Visit: Arrive anytime between dawn and dusk. No time pressure. Visit mid-morning on weekdays to avoid crowds. Spring and fall offer cooler temperatures and clearer light.
Tips Advice: 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.

More details

Park Area: New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, Fayetteville area
Trail Markers: Well-marked boardwalk, painted arrows.
Dogs Allowed: Yes, on-leash.
Biking Allowed: No bikes on boardwalk.
Shade Level: Partial shade from riparian canopy.
Emergency Contacts: New River Gorge Visitor Center: (304) 465-0508. Emergency: 911.
Map Recommended: 0
Alltrails Link: www.alltrails.com
Snow Dates: Boardwalk may ice over in deep winter (Jan-Feb). Manageable if careful.
Mud Season: Not applicable—boardwalk drains well.
Wildflower Peak: May-June riparian wildflowers (not focus of trail).
Fall Colors Peak: October. Gorge-side forest turns gold and red.
Bug Season: Summer (Jun-Aug) mosquitoes near water. Use repellent.
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.
Recent Updates: Boardwalk inspected and maintained regularly per NPS.
Family Friendly 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.
Review Summary: Hikers call it a 'quick riverside stroll.' Perfect for families and beginners. Zero technical challenge.