Long Point Trail

A view of the New River Gorge Bridge spanning river and deep gorge

This 1.6-mile one-way descent through forest ends at Long Point, a rock outcrop with panoramic views of New River Gorge and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge. Most of the route is an easy forest descent, but one steep section near the endpoint strains the knees. The real test is the unprotected cliff exposure at the point—this is not beginner terrain.

Quick facts

Distance Miles: 1.6
Route Type: One-way
Difficulty Level: Moderate descent, but the steep final section and cliff exposure make this experienced-hiker territory. Not beginner-friendly.
Elevation Gain Feet: 0

Trail profile

Distance Miles: 1.6
Route Type: One-way
Difficulty Level: Moderate descent, but the steep final section and cliff exposure make this experienced-hiker territory. Not beginner-friendly.
Elevation Gain Feet: 0
Estimated Time: 2-2.5 hours round trip. The descent is fast; the ascent with the steep section is the harder half. Add 30 minutes if less fit or stopping for views.
Trail Surface: Dirt path and forest floor with rocky sections, especially at the rock outcrop.
Trail Features: Panoramic gorge views
New River Gorge Bridge views
Rock outcrop viewpoint
Forest descent
Trail Highlights: The payoff is Long Point—a high rock outcrop with unobstructed panoramic views of the entire New River Gorge and the iconic New River Gorge Bridge spanning above you.

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location: From US 19, follow WV 16 south through Fayetteville. Turn left on Gatewood Road and follow for 1.9 miles. Turn left on Newton Road. Trailhead parking is 50 yards on the left.
Parking Lot Size: Small lot with limited capacity.
Parking Fill Time: Full by 8am on weekends; typically available weekday mornings.
Shuttle Required: 0
Shuttle Details: No shuttle service. Parking at trailhead only.

Permits & conditions

Permit Details: No permits required.
Fees: No entrance fee for New River Gorge National Park.
Trail Status: Open
Seasonal Closures: None typical; park is open year-round 24/7.

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead: 1
Water Sources: No water sources on trail. Carry all water needed.
Accessibility: Steep final section with unprotected cliff edges limits accessibility for balance-impaired hikers, those with vertigo, or mobility limitations. Rocky, natural terrain throughout.

Safety & strategy

Hazards: Unprotected cliff edges
Steep final section
Exposure to height
Potential falls
Hazard Details: Unprotected cliff edges at Long Point present fatal fall risk. Do not stray from the trail or approach the edges carelessly. One steep section near the endpoint (described as "just before you arrive at the point") strains the knees on descent and demands focus on the return climb. Exposure to height—not suitable for vertigo sufferers.
Crowd Level: Moderate on weekends; quieter weekdays.
Peak Crowd Times: Weekends, especially Saturday mornings 8am-12pm.
Best Season: Spring and fall offer cool, stable conditions. Summer heat is oppressive on the exposed cliff sections.
Best Time To Visit: Start by 6am to maximize daylight near the exposed cliff areas. Spring and fall offer stable, cool weather—summer heat intensifies exposure risk. Avoid wet conditions; rain makes the steep section and cliff edges treacherous.
Tips Advice: Carry minimum 2L water; no sources on trail. Summer heat makes this critical.
Trekking poles essential for the descent—save your knees for the return climb.
Boots must be laced tight; ankle support matters on the steep push.
Stay on marked trail at Long Point. Unprotected cliff edges are fatal if you slip.
Start early to finish before dusk—never navigate near cliffs in low light.
On the return, the steep section is now uphill; take it slow and steady.

More details

Park Area: Fayetteville-Lansing area
Trail Markers: Labeled (12) on the Fayetteville-Lansing Area Trails map.
Biking Allowed: Mountain bikes permitted except on the last 0.2 miles to Long Point; expect to hike the final push.
Shade Level: Mostly shaded forest path with some open field sections early in the descent. Limited shade near the exposed rock outcrop.
Emergency Contacts: Call 911. Park Headquarters, Glen Jean: contact park visitor center for ranger assistance.
Map Recommended: 1
Snow Dates: Rare in typical hiking season; winter snow possible but not common in southern West Virginia.
Mud Season: Spring runoff may create muddy conditions on descent; avoid immediately after heavy rain.
Bug Season: Peak mosquitoes and insects in summer months; consider spring/fall for relief.
Insider Tips: The steepest section comes at the very end—conserve leg strength for the final push.
Mountain bikers: the 0.2-mile hike-out section is steep and rocky; walking is faster than riding.
Early morning light (6-8am) illuminates the gorge views best for photos.
The parking lot is small; weekday mornings guarantee a spot. Weekends require 7am arrival.
Bring extra water above the 2L minimum; you'll be thirsty on the return climb.
Family Friendly Notes: NOT recommended for young children. Unprotected cliff edges at Long Point create fatal fall risk if a child falls or wanders off-trail. Hand-holding mandatory if bringing older children; supervise constantly near the outcrop.
Nearby Facilities: Vault composting toilet at trailhead. Auto parking available. Supplies and services in nearby Fayetteville, West Virginia.
Review Summary: Hikers consistently praise the panoramic gorge and bridge views from Long Point as the payoff that justifies the modest distance. Most note the steep final section demands knee strength but delivers memorable views. Experienced hikers appreciate the exposed terrain; those with height anxiety often report the cliff edges feel more serious than expected—respect that instinct.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Can I do this trail alone?

Yes, if you're comfortable with heights and have solid navigation skills. The trail is straightforward and not technically difficult. The real concern is cliff exposure at the end—only hike solo if vertigo or panic on exposure isn't an issue.

How fit do I need to be?

Moderate fitness is sufficient for the descent. The return climb with the steep section is the hard part. If you can hike 3 miles at a steady pace with some elevation change, you'll manage this.

Is the steep section really that steep?

Yes. It's described in the NPS data as 'one steep section just before you arrive at the point.' Expect 15-20% grade for the final 0.1-0.2 miles. Trekking poles are not optional—they're essential.

Do I need a map or permit?

No permit required. Map not strictly necessary if you stay on the marked trail, but strongly recommended given cliff exposure at the endpoint. Navigation error near unprotected edges is dangerous.

How much water should I carry?

Minimum 2L for the round trip. Bring 3L in summer. No water sources exist on the trail—refill before you start or bring more than you think you'll need.

Are dogs allowed?

Dog policy not explicitly stated in park data. Check with park visitor centers before bringing dogs, especially near cliff edges where a loose dog is a serious hazard.

Will I be alone out there?

Not typically on weekends, especially 8am-2pm. Expect moderate crowds. Arrive early or go on a weekday morning for solitude.