Yes. Fishing is allowed in designated areas accessed from the boardwalk. Bring a rod for musky and smallmouth bass.

Sandstone Falls Boardwalk - 0.2mi Easy Accessible

Q: Is this safe to hike alone?

Yes. It's well-traveled, staffed, and typically busy with other visitors. No technical hazards or wildlife risk.

Q: What if the boardwalk is wet?

Slow down and use the railings. Wet boards have some grip, but wear non-slip shoes. After heavy rain, consider waiting for it to dry.

Q: How long does it really take?

20 minutes if you power through. 45+ minutes if you enjoy the views and take photos. Most people spend 30–45 minutes.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Nope. Wear sturdy non-slip shoes and bring water. Sunscreen is advised—the boardwalk offers no shade.

Q: Is this worth the 9-mile drive on River Road?

Yes. The largest waterfall on the New River is a rare sight. The narrow road adds character; drive slow and enjoy the gorge.

Distance

0.2 mi

Est. Time

30 minutes to 1 hour

Route Type

Out-and-back

Best Season

Spring through fall

Overview

About This Trail

The largest waterfall on the New River awaits at the end of a quarter-mile accessible boardwalk. This easy walk crosses two bridges to observation decks overlooking a 1,500-foot-wide waterfall dropping 10–25 feet. No elevation gain, no scrambling, no technical skill required—just respect the sun exposure and wet boards. Perfect for families, elders, and anyone wanting zero-effort waterfall views.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy

Trail Highlights

The 1,500-foot-wide waterfall dropping 10–25 feet divided by islands. Observation decks provide multiple angles of this massive flow. The flatrock community along the boardwalk showcases rare Appalachian plants found nowhere else in the gorge.

Insider Tips

• Arrive by 9:00 AM on weekends to secure parking before the lot fills. • The best light for photos is morning (6:00–9:00 AM) when sun angles capture the falls' full width. • If boards are wet, they're slippery—don't run or rush. • The second observation deck (furthest out) offers the widest waterfall view—walk the full boardwalk. • Fishing is allowed in marked areas; bring a rod if you're after musky.

Best Season to Hike

Spring through fall

Hiking Tips

Bring 1L water minimum despite the short distance—sun on the boardwalk is relentless.
Wear non-slip shoes; wet boards are slippery.
Tighten your boots for the bridge sections.
Apply sunscreen before the walk.
Watch children on observation decks—railings present but not fully fenced.
Fish for musky if you're anglers; fishing access from the boardwalk.
Stay on the boardwalk; Appalachian flatrock plants are rare and protected.

Family Info

Excellent for all ages. Easy walk, no technical skills needed. However, watch children on observation decks and bridge sections—some railings are partial. The boardwalk is sturdy and stable but slippery when wet. Strollers may navigate the boardwalk but not the unpaved parking area.

What Hikers Say

This is a beginner-friendly gem. Families and casual hikers love the short, easy walk to a massive waterfall view. The boardwalk is stable and well-maintained. No conditioning required, but respect the sun and water. A zero-effort payoff.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.2 miles

Duration: 30 minutes to 1 hour

Difficulty: Easy

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Boardwalk and gravel

Getting There

Trailhead: Follow River Road (WV Route 26) from the west end of the WV Route 20 bridge in Hinton. Follow this narrow road along the river for nine miles to Sandstone Falls. The unpaved parking area will be on your right. River Road is single lane in places; drive slowly and use extra caution.

Parking: Small unpaved lot

Fills Up: Mid-morning on weekends

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

None required

Fees: Free

Shuttle Available

None available

Trail Rules

Biking: No

Trail Markers: Well-marked boardwalk path. Hard to get lost.

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None. Bring your own water. The waterfall is not potable.

Shade: Limited. Mostly exposed boardwalk over water.

Hazards:

Wet boards after rain or morning dew can be slippery—wear shoes with grip. The boardwalk is open and exposed; bring sun protection and water. Some observation deck edges are not fully fenced; supervise children and watch your footing. The water flow is visible and audible from the bridges.

Emergency: Call 911. Nearest NPS staffing: Sandstone Visitor Center (open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily).

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Moderate to busy on weekends

Peak Times: Weekends 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Fully accessible. Paved boardwalk, wheelchair-friendly, even surface, two observation decks accessible.

Family Notes:

Nearby Facilities

Parking, vault toilets, and trailhead at Sandstone Brooks Area. Nearest town services in Hinton (9 miles west via River Road). Chapter 1: Canyon Rim Visitor Center and Sandstone Visitor Center open 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

Can small children do this trail?

Yes. Most kids 3+ can walk a quarter-mile on a flat boardwalk. Watch them on the observation decks—railings are present but not fully enclosed. No scrambling or exposure.

Is this safe to hike alone?

What if the boardwalk is wet?

How long does it really take?

Do I need special gear?

Is this worth the 9-mile drive on River Road?

Can I fish here?