Grandview New River Gorge National Park
Grandview offers spectacular, easily accessible overlooks and scenic hiking trails within the New River Gorge National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds, vibrant colors
Grandview New River Gorge National Park
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds, vibrant colors
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Grandview offers spectacular, easily accessible overlooks and scenic hiking trails within the New River Gorge National Park.
"Breathtaking views and great hiking trails with interesting features to explore are everywhere."
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Bring your camera! The overlooks offer incredible photo ops, especially at sunrise/sunset.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. Trails range from paved to rocky, so be prepared.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grandview Main Overlook
Grandview Area
Jaw-dropping 1,400-foot drop into the gorge. Easily accessible and incredibly scenic.
Turkey Spur Overlook
Grandview Area
Second highest overlook in the park, offering expansive and dramatic views of the gorge.
Castle Rock Trail
Grandview Area
A fun, moderately challenging hike with interesting rock formations and rewarding views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Grandview's Views: Easy Access, Big Impact
+1Beyond the Overlook: Trails and History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Bring your camera! The overlooks offer incredible photo ops, especially at sunrise/sunset.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. Trails range from paved to rocky, so be prepared.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
While there are picnic areas, carrying your own refreshments is wise for longer hikes.
🚫 Check Welcome Center Hours
The welcome center can be closed, so plan accordingly for information or facilities.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Grandeur
Bring your camera! The overlooks offer incredible photo ops, especially at sunrise/sunset.
👟 Trail Ready
Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. Trails range from paved to rocky, so be prepared.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
While there are picnic areas, carrying your own refreshments is wise for longer hikes.
🚫 Check Welcome Center Hours
The welcome center can be closed, so plan accordingly for information or facilities.
🐍 Be Wildlife Aware
Keep an eye out for wildlife like snakes on trails. Admire from a distance!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Grandview for its breathtaking, easily accessible overlooks and enjoyable hiking trails, making it a highlight for photographers and families alike. While some found the trails basic, others appreciated the variety and unique features like Castle Rock. Minor drawbacks include occasional cleanliness issues with facilities and the closure of the welcome center.
"Went mid October 2025
We went here for a little hiking trip. It is super easy, basic hiking nothing hard or spectacular.
The outlook is wheelchair accessible and easy to see with beautiful views. The tunnel trail was cook, quick easy hike. The castle rock was the most fun of all NRG. Still easy but a little more roots and rocks. Also a quick hike. We kept going and connected to the RIM View trail to make it a loop. It was quick but the rocks were cool.
We did see a black rat snake on the trail so be cautious. The welcome center there was closed. The playground was busy but looked nice. They are flushable toilets but they were nasty and not taken care of. Although there was running water so great place to wash your hands if you are camping.
It was all free, dog friendly. Was I happy I went? Of course, would I go again? Probably not."
Rachel Irodenko
"As a photographer and hiker, love Grandview. Breath taking views, great hiking trails with interesting features to explore, and awesome backdrops for photos are everywhere. If you enjoy hiking, photography, or both, visit Grandview...you won't be disappointed."
Jim Cook
"We were at a campout for a week and couldn’t really go out, we wanted to get a better taste of the beautiful West Virginia and this place came up on my GPS, great if you’re in a hurry, we parked and walked 3 minutes to one of the most , beautiful views, breathtaking views we were short on time but we were able to hike and find more out looks. We got a pretty good feel and hint of WEST VIRGINIA. Would totally come back again, great for if you’re just going by."
Bryan Lopez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grandview is located about 45 minutes south of Fayetteville, WV. It's accessible by car via WV-16 S. Many visitors find it a convenient stop if they're passing through the area.
Yes, Grandview is generally well-marked and easy to navigate to. It's a popular section of the park, so GPS should guide you effectively.
Driving is the primary mode of transport. Be prepared for winding roads and enjoy the scenic drives between different sections of the New River Gorge National Park.
Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. Renting a car or using a ride-sharing service (if available) is recommended for reaching Grandview.
Grandview is conveniently located near Beckley, WV, making it a great destination for those staying in or visiting the Beckley area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Grandview, like most of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, is free to enter. There are no admission fees required.
Grandview is generally open year-round during daylight hours. Specific facilities like the visitor center may have seasonal hours.
No advance booking is necessary for general access to Grandview. It's a public park area. However, if you plan to attend specific events like the 'Into the Woods' drama, booking tickets for that is recommended.
Standard park rules apply. Leashed pets are generally allowed in outdoor areas, but check for any specific signage.
Yes, the main overlooks at Grandview are wheelchair accessible, making it a great spot for visitors of all mobility levels to enjoy the views.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Grandview Main Overlook and Turkey Spur Overlook are the most popular and offer breathtaking, expansive views of the New River Gorge.
Grandview offers several trails, including the paved Grandview Rim Trail, the more rugged Castle Rock Trail, and the Tunnel Trail. There are options for various fitness levels. +1
Yes, Grandview has numerous picnic areas and a playground, making it a great spot for families and groups to spend an afternoon.
It's possible to see wildlife, including snakes, so always be aware of your surroundings and maintain a safe distance.
The historic mining town of Thurman is a short drive from Grandview and offers a glimpse into West Virginia's coal mining history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the Grandview section of the park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or dine in nearby towns like Fayetteville or Beckley.
Fayetteville offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants. Beckley also has numerous eateries.
Absolutely! Grandview is equipped with many picnic areas, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal amidst stunning scenery.
Typically, there are no regular food trucks or vendors operating within the Grandview area. It's best to come prepared with your own food.
You can find a range of cuisine, including classic American fare, pizza, and local Appalachian dishes in the towns near Grandview.
📸 📸 Photography
The main overlooks, especially Grandview Main Overlook and Turkey Spur Overlook, provide dramatic backdrops for landscape photography.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the gorge. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views.
Beyond the sweeping vistas, the hiking trails offer opportunities for nature photography, including interesting rock formations and flora.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or wildlife. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage in National Parks is subject to strict regulations. Check the official NPS website for current drone policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There's also a playground on-site, providing a fun space for children to burn off energy. Several hiking trails, like the paved Grandview Rim Trail, are suitable for strollers or young walkers. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider a picnic lunch to make the most of the scenic picnic areas.
🚶 Solo Travelers
+1 The park's natural beauty and the opportunity for short, manageable hikes offer a sense of adventure without feeling overwhelming. Consider exploring trails like Castle Rock for a bit of a challenge, or simply enjoy the panoramic vistas from the main viewpoints. It's a great place to connect with nature and experience the grandeur of West Virginia's landscape.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The dramatic elevation changes and rugged terrain provide compelling subjects. Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light, especially during sunrise and sunset. Don't overlook the hiking trails for unique perspectives and details. A wide-angle lens is a must-have for capturing the sheer scale of the New River Gorge.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Grandview's Hiking Trails
For a bit more adventure, the Castle Rock Trail provides a more rugged experience with roots and rocks, leading to interesting geological formations. This trail is a favorite among those looking for a short but engaging hike.
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as trail conditions can vary. Always be mindful of your surroundings and any wildlife you might encounter.
The 'Into the Woods' Experience
Attendees describe the performances as magical, with powerful vocals, captivating acting, and stunning costumes. The production is often compared to professional stage shows, offering a high-caliber entertainment experience in a unique outdoor setting.
If you're visiting during the summer, checking the schedule for the Grandview Theater is highly recommended. It's a chance to combine the park's natural splendor with a memorable theatrical performance, offering a different dimension to your visit.
Photography at Grandview: Capturing the Gorge
+1 The dramatic 1,400-foot drop into the gorge creates a sense of immense scale and natural grandeur. For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The soft, warm light accentuates the rugged landscape and adds depth to your shots.
While the overlooks are easily accessible, exploring the hiking trails can lead to more intimate photographic opportunities, capturing the details of the forest and rock formations. When packing your gear, a wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the vastness of the gorge. Consider bringing a tripod for stable shots, especially during low-light conditions. Remember to always be respectful of the environment and other visitors while seeking the perfect shot.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit