Long Point Trail
Hike to an iconic overlook for breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Long Point Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to an iconic overlook for breathtaking views of the New River Gorge Bridge and surrounding canyon.
"The entire gorge and the New River Gorge Bridge appear right in front of you like a scene from a travel magazine. "
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited and fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning or late afternoon. :car:
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The last part of the trail is rocky. Good grip is essential, especially if it's damp. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
New River Gorge Bridge Overlook
End of Long Point Trail
The ultimate reward: a breathtaking, unobstructed view of the iconic New River Gorge Bridge and the surrounding gorge.
Peaceful Forest Walk
Along the Long Point Trail
Wander through shaded, quiet woods on a well-maintained path, building anticipation for the grand reveal.
Rocky Trail Finish
Final section of Long Point Trail
A slightly more challenging, rocky ascent that adds to the adventure before reaching the stunning viewpoint.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Iconic Views
Trail Conditions & What to Wear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited and fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning or late afternoon. :car:
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The last part of the trail is rocky. Good grip is essential, especially if it's damp. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty along the trail. Be prepared with offline navigation.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
It's a moderate hike, so stay hydrated and fueled, especially on warmer days. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited and fills up fast, especially on weekends. Aim for early morning or late afternoon. :car:
👟 Sturdy Shoes are a Must
The last part of the trail is rocky. Good grip is essential, especially if it's damp. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty along the trail. Be prepared with offline navigation.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
It's a moderate hike, so stay hydrated and fueled, especially on warmer days. :water_wave:
📸 Capture the Iconic View
The overlook offers a postcard-perfect shot of the New River Gorge Bridge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Long Point Trail for its incredible payoff – a breathtaking view of the New River Gorge Bridge for a manageable effort. The well-maintained, shaded path makes for a pleasant hike, though the final rocky section requires a bit more attention. While parking can be a challenge, the iconic scenery makes it a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
"This is the starting point for one of the best views in the New River Gorge, and the trailhead itself is easy to find with decent parking and simple signage. The trail is mostly gentle and well-maintained, winding through quiet woods with soft, shaded stretches that feel peaceful even on busier days.
It’s about a 3-mile round trip, but it never feels tough, it’s more of a relaxing walk that slowly builds anticipation. The forest opens up just at the perfect moment, and when you reach the overlook, the entire gorge and the New River Gorge Bridge appear right in front of you like a scene from a travel magazine.
This trail is loved because it delivers huge payoff for a manageable effort, anyone with casual hiking experience can do it and still end up with one of the most iconic views in the park.
If you’re visiting New River Gorge and want a memorable but approachable hike, starting at Long Point Trailhead is the perfect move."
San Dee
"A beautiful hike that had week maintained trails and signage. The views are beautiful and plenty of places to stop and take pics or just rest if needed. That last incline is a little difficult but definitely doable for all levels. The stunning view of the surrounding area and bridge at the end makes it's all worth it!"
Laura Bruner
"The trailhead has plenty of parking spots(if you arrive in the dark like me😉) otherwise it'll be pretty full by midday and the road next to it is lined with no parking signs. I would rate the trail as easy for someone that occasionally hikes. Hard for someone that never goes outside. The overlook was all clouds today and couldn't see the bridge, but it was still a great hike."
Alex Bennett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Long Point Trailhead is located near Fayetteville, West Virginia, within the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve. From Fayetteville, take WV-16 S to Long Point Road, which leads to the trailhead parking area.
Yes, there's a gravel parking lot at the trailhead. However, it's quite popular and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving early is highly recommended. :car:
Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. Driving your own vehicle or renting a car is the most practical way to access the Long Point Trailhead.
While the trail itself offers the main scenic payoff, driving to the trailhead via local roads provides glimpses of the beautiful West Virginia landscape. Consider combining it with a visit to the Canyon Rim Boardwalk for more bridge views.
The access road to the trailhead is generally paved, but the parking lot is gravel and can be tight. Large RVs might find parking challenging, especially when the lot is busy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Long Point Trail is part of the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, which has no entrance fee. Hiking the trail is free.
The trail is open year-round from dawn to dusk. There are no official operating hours, but it's best to hike during daylight for safety and to enjoy the views.
No, the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is a fee-free park, allowing access to its trails and scenic areas without an admission charge.
While there aren't official park-guided tours specifically for Long Point Trail, local outfitters may offer guided hikes in the New River Gorge area. Check with local tourism boards for options.
For other attractions like the Canyon Rim Visitor Center or potential adventure activities (rafting, zip-lining), it's best to check their individual websites for booking information and any associated fees.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Long Point Trail is approximately 3.1 to 3.9 miles round trip, and most visitors complete it in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on their pace and how long they spend at the overlook.
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. The first part is a gentle, well-maintained path, but the final section becomes rocky and has some inclines.
The overlook provides a spectacular, unobstructed view of the New River Gorge Bridge and the surrounding gorge. It's a rocky outcrop, so be mindful of your footing.
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Long Point Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please clean up after your pet.
Yes, the trail is suitable for children, especially if they are accustomed to walking. The gentle start is easy for little ones, but the rocky end might require closer supervision.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing the New River Gorge Bridge. However, midday can also provide clear, bright views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge and bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or long exposures.
The main overlook offers the classic view. For different perspectives, explore the edges of the rocky outcrop carefully, ensuring safety.
Drone usage in National Parks is regulated. Check the National Park Service website for current drone regulations and any restrictions in the New River Gorge National Park & Preserve before flying.
The primary viewpoint offers a direct, head-on shot. Moving slightly left or right on the overlook can provide slightly different framing, capturing more of the gorge's curves.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the trail. Ensure children wear appropriate footwear for the rocky sections. The limited parking means an early start is often best to secure a spot and avoid a long walk from the car. Consider it a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of national parks.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Tips for saving: Pack your own lunch and snacks to avoid purchasing them at potentially higher-priced local eateries. Carpooling with friends or family can also help reduce fuel costs. Since there's no admission fee, you can enjoy world-class scenery without spending a dime on entry.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Photography advice: Aim for the golden hours around sunrise or sunset for the best light. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as fog or clouds can add a dramatic, moody atmosphere. While the main overlook is the primary spot, explore the edges cautiously for unique angles. Remember to check drone regulations if you plan to use one.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic New River Gorge Bridge
+1Many visitors come specifically to witness this iconic structure. The overlook at the end of Long Point Trail provides an unobstructed, panoramic vista that has become a signature shot for photographers and a memorable sight for all who visit. The bridge's presence transforms the natural beauty of the gorge into a dramatic landscape, blending human achievement with the raw power of nature.
Pro Tip: While the view is stunning any time of day, consider visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic lighting on the bridge and gorge.
Navigating the Long Point Trail
As you progress, the trail gradually becomes more rugged. The final stretch leading to the overlook is characterized by rocks and roots, requiring a bit more attention and a steady foot. This slight increase in difficulty is often noted by hikers, but it's generally considered a minor challenge that adds to the adventure and is well worth the effort for the payoff at the end.
Community Advice: Many Redditors and Instagrammers emphasize wearing sturdy shoes with good grip for the rocky sections. While not an extreme climb, proper footwear can make the experience much more comfortable and safer, especially if the trail is damp.
Best Times for Photography & Views
However, West Virginia weather can be unpredictable. Fog or clouds can obscure the view, as experienced by some visitors. While this can be disappointing, even a foggy overlook can create a mystical, atmospheric scene. Some travelers suggest that visiting on a weekday can lead to fewer crowds, allowing for more unhurried photo opportunities without people in the background.
Social Media Insights: Instagram reels often showcase the bridge during peak fall foliage, highlighting the vibrant colors that enhance the already stunning scenery. If you're aiming for a fall visit, be prepared for potentially larger crowds but also for breathtaking autumnal views.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit