Brooks Island Overlook offers a peaceful riverside view of the New River Gorge, where scenic drives, waterfalls, and wildlife like bald eagles come together.
Overview
Sitting on a scenic stretch of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in West Virginia, Brooks Island Overlook is one of those quiet, often-overlooked spots that ends up being a highlight of your trip. While many visitors flock to the famous New River Gorge Bridge Overlook, this viewpoint offers a completely different perspective that is calmer, less crowded, and deeply connected to the flow of the New River watershed. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take in the Appalachian Mountains, and appreciate the beauty of a mile-long island surrounded by rushing water.
The area around Brooks Island is part of the historic New River Gorge National River, long protected for its ecological and cultural significance. The river itself is one of the oldest in North America, cutting through layers of rock to form the dramatic gorge you see today.
Brooks Island, sometimes referred to as a small island depending on water levels, sits near the lower falls of Sandstone Falls, an area historically important for both transportation and industry. Over time, conservation efforts led by the National Park Service have preserved this region, allowing visitors to experience everything from perennial bald eagle habitats to unique plant life like the American sycamore tree growing along the riverbanks.
You’ll know you’ve reached the right place because there’s an informational sign at the overlook
Brooks Island Overlook Plan
After completing the Bridge Walk in the morning, we made our way to the Sandstone Visitor Center to learn more about the park and pick up information for the rest of our day. From there, we continued south toward Brooks Island Overlook, making it one of our next stops as we explored the park. The overlook was an easy addition to our itinerary and provided a completely different perspective of the New River than what we had experienced earlier that morning. Since we were already in the area after visiting the visitor center, it made sense to combine Brooks Island Overlook with a visit to Sandstone Falls, allowing us to see both the river’s scenic overlooks and one of its most impressive waterfalls in a single outing. This sequence worked well for us and helped us experience several of the park’s highlights in one day.
When you get to the overlook, there’s a small ledge that looks over the river below
Getting There
Location
New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is located in southern West Virginia in the United States, stretching along the New River through the Appalachian Mountains. The park spans multiple regions, including the upper gorge and areas near Sandstone Falls, making it one of the most diverse and accessible national parks in the country.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit really depends on what you want to see. Late June is fantastic for lush greenery and active wildlife, including bald eagles. Fall is widely considered the best season thanks to vibrant foliage across the gorge.
Early morning is one of the best times of day to visit Brooks Island Overlook specifically—you’ll get softer light, fewer crowds, and a better chance of spotting wildlife along the river.
The island is a large, mile-long island in the middle of the New River
Brooks Island Overlook
Who Can Go?
Brooks Island Overlook is a great place for just about everyone. It’s accessible for families, casual visitors, and anyone who prefers minimal hiking. Unlike more strenuous trails like Big Branch Trail, this stop is easy to reach and doesn’t require much physical effort, making it ideal for all ages.
What You'll See
At Brooks Island Overlook, you’ll get a beautiful view of the mile-long Brooks Island sitting in the middle of the New River. Depending on water levels, you may notice smaller sections like a first island or exposed rock formations like thin rock breaking up the current.
You’ll also see:
- The view of the lower falls near Sandstone Falls
- Calm stretches of river mixed with rushing water
- Towering American sycamore trees along the banks
- Occasional sightings of bald eagles soaring overhead
It’s a peaceful contrast to the dramatic cliffs of the upper gorge.
From the overlook, you can see some of the rapids on this side of Brooks Island
What to Bring & Wear
Bring comfortable walking shoes, even though the overlook is easy to access. Lightweight clothing works well in warmer months, but layers are helpful if you’re visiting early in the morning or during cooler seasons.
Don’t forget:
- Water and snacks
- A camera or phone for photos
- Binoculars for spotting wildlife
- The NPS App for maps and updates
Where to Go
To reach Brooks Island Overlook, head toward the Sandstone area of the park. The best starting point is the Sandstone Visitor Center. From there, follow signs along the scenic road toward Sandstone Falls.
As you drive along River Road, you’ll find pull-offs and signage directing you to Brooks Island Overlook. It’s often paired with stops at Sandstone Falls Overlook and the lower overlook, making it an easy addition to your scenic drive.
Closer view of the rapids in the river
How Long Does it Take?
Visiting Brooks Island Overlook is quick and easy. Plan for about 10–20 minutes at the overlook itself, though you may want longer if you’re taking photos or enjoying the view.
If you combine it with Sandstone Falls and nearby stops, expect to spend 1–2 hours exploring the area.
Cost
There are currently no entrance fees to visit New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, making this a budget-friendly destination. Always check for updates through the National Park Service or the NPS app before your visit.
Close up of one small section of Brooks Island
Tips for Brooks Island Overlook
- Arrive early morning for the best light and fewer crowds
- Combine this stop with Sandstone Falls for a fuller experience
- Keep an eye out for perennial bald eagle sightings
- Use the NPS App to navigate and learn about the area
- Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing
- Take your time—this is a quiet, scenic spot meant to be enjoyed slowly
- Drive carefully along River Road, as it can be narrow in places
- Stop at multiple overlooks to fully appreciate the New River watershed
- Don’t skip the visitor centers as they provide helpful context and resources