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

Sandstone Falls Boardwalk - 0.25mi Easy Walk

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Q: 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.

Distance

0.25 mi

Est. Time

30 minutes

Route Type

Out-and-back (main boardwalk). Optional: 1/4-mile off-boardwalk trail loop.

Dogs Allowed

Best Season

Year-round

Overview

About This 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.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Walk in the park

Trail Highlights

Year-round river views with photography angles and wildlife watching from a fully accessible boardwalk overlooking Sandstone Falls.

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.

Best Season to Hike

Year-round

Hiking Tips

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.

Family Info

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.

What Hikers Say

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.

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 0.25 miles

Duration: 30 minutes

Difficulty: Walk in the park

Route Type: Out-and-back (main boardwalk). Optional: 1/4-mile off-boardwalk trail loop.

Surface: Wooden boardwalk

Getting There

Trailhead: Sandstone Falls Boardwalk Parking Area

Parking: Multiple spaces including handicapped-accessible parking adjacent to boardwalk entrance

Requirements

Permit Required

No permits required

Fees: Free

Shuttle Available

Not applicable

Trail Rules

Dogs: Yes—on leash, 6 feet or shorter. Owners must pick up after pets.

Trail Markers: Well-marked and maintained

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Unknown—no drinking water sources noted at trailhead. Carry what you need.

Hazards:

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.

Emergency: Sandstone Visitor Center (open 9am–5pm daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years). Park Headquarters: Glen Jean. In emergencies, call 911.

Accessibility & Family

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.

Family Notes:

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.

What Hikers Say

FAQs

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?

Are restrooms available at the trailhead?

Can I bring my dog?

What's the best time to visit for photography?

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee?