Explore the Island Loop Trail in New River Gorge National Park for river views, forest scenery, coal mining history, and peaceful hiking trails.
Island Loop Trail Basics
Under 1 Hour
Under 1 Mile
Loop Trail
22 Feet
Duration: Under 1 Hour
Most hikers complete the Island Loop Trail in about 45 minutes, depending on pace, river level conditions, photo stops, and how much time you spend enjoying the natural beauty of the New River Gorge area. If you combine it with nearby hiking trails like the Endless Wall Trail, Kaymoor Miners Trail, or Long Point, plan for a much longer adventure-filled day in southern West Virginia’s New River Gorge National River corridor.
Distance: Under 1 Mile
The Island Loop Trail is a relatively short half-mile and moderately easy hike that loops around the largest island in this section of the 53-mile stretch of the New River. The trail is ideal for visitors who want a scenic walk without committing to the challenging terrain found on steeper routes like the Bridge Buttress Trail or Kaymoor Miners Trail.
Type: Loop Trail
This is a loop trail that winds through wooded terrain, riverside scenery, and areas shaped by years of erosion along one of the oldest rivers in the western hemisphere. The loop format makes the hike easy to follow and convenient for visitors exploring the main areas of the park.
Elevation Change: 22 Feet
The elevation gain is moderate overall, with a few rolling sections and uneven surfaces throughout the trail. Unlike the steep back hike routes into the deep gorge near old coal mines, the Island Loop Trail maintains a manageable climb for most hikers while still offering excellent scenery and a rewarding outdoor experience.
Season: Spring, Sumer, Fall
Late summer and early fall are some of the best times to hike the Island Loop Trail. Warm temperatures make the forest comfortable for hiking, while changing foliage begins to color the western rim of New River and surrounding hillsides. Spring also brings lush greenery and flowing water throughout the river system, especially after rain.
Time of Day: Any
Morning and late afternoon provide the most comfortable hiking conditions. Early light filtering through the trees creates beautiful scenery along the trail, while evening sunlight often highlights the river and surrounding cliffs. Midday can become hot during summer, especially in exposed sections near the water.
Amount of Shade: Mostly Shaded
The trail offers a generous amount of shade thanks to dense forest cover surrounding Hamilton Island and nearby sections of the river. This makes it a pleasant option during warm temperatures when some overlook trails in the northernmost Canyon Rim area receive full sun exposure.
Difficulty: Easy
The Island Loop Trail is considered easy for most hikers. While it lacks the intense elevation change of routes descending into former coal mining areas, hikers should still expect roots, rocks, muddy sections, and uneven footing. Mountain bikers occasionally use connecting paths nearby, so staying aware of surroundings is important.
What Makes Island Loop Trail a Great Hike?
What makes this trail special is the combination of quiet forest scenery, river access, and connections to the rich history of south-central West Virginia. The Island Loop Trail feels removed from busier areas near the New River Gorge Bridge and Canyon Rim Visitor Center while still remaining accessible.
You’ll experience peaceful riverside landscapes, views of the deep gorge, and reminders of the region’s coal mining past that shaped nearby communities and the pair of small mining towns scattered throughout the gorge. The hike also provides a calmer alternative to busier recreational activities like world-class whitewater rafting and rock climbing.
Scenery on the Island Loop Trail
Start of the Trail
The beginning of the hike immediately immerses visitors in dense forest scenery and the sounds of the New River flowing nearby. Depending on the season, hikers may notice wildflowers, moss-covered rocks, and views toward the western rim of New River.
The peaceful environment feels dramatically different from the busy overlooks near the New River Gorge Bridge.
Tyler at a spot near the trail where the water flows
Ryan enjoys scrambling over rocks when he can
On the Trail
As you continue hiking, the trail loops around Hamilton Island and passes through sections shaped by centuries of erosion. The river system surrounding the island creates constantly changing scenery with rocky banks, flowing water, and occasional glimpses into the deep gorge.
Some areas reveal evidence of the region’s industrial history, including traces connected to coal mining operations and transportation routes once tied to the Ohio Railway system.
Wildlife sightings are common, and the wooded atmosphere provides excellent shade throughout much of the route.
End of the Trail
Toward the end of the hike, the forest opens slightly in places to provide convenient views of the river and surrounding cliffs. During early fall, the colors become especially beautiful as the hardwood forest transforms across southern West Virginia.
The relaxing finish makes this trail an amazing visit for hikers wanting scenic beauty without spending too much time on extremely strenuous routes.
Notable Places on the Hike
During the hike, you will get close to the river at certain points. You can take the time to sit by the water’s edge before moving on.
View of the New River through the trees
Stephanie, Tyler, and Ryan walking along the dirt path on the Island Loop Trail
Island Loop Trailhead Information
Park Name: New River Gorge National Park
The Island Loop Trail is located within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in the United States.
Finding the Trailhead
The trailhead is easiest to reach via scenic drives through the New River Gorge National Park region. Many visitors combine the Island Loop Trail with stops at Sandstone Falls Overlook. Depending on your route through the park, you may travel along River Road or pass through areas connected to historic coal mines and former Ohio Railway corridors established during the late 1800s coal boom.
Markers Along the Trail
Trail markers are generally easy to follow, though hikers should still pay attention at intersections with side paths and unofficial routes. Like many hiking trails in the park, portions can become muddy or obscured after storms or periods of high river level.
Nearest Restrooms
There is a pit toilet located in the parking area for the trailhead.
Parking Area
A small public parking lot is available near the trailhead. Parking areas throughout the New River Gorge area can fill quickly during weekends, especially in late summer and early fall when visitors flock to the park for scenic drives, rock climbers gathering near the best rock formations, and rafting adventures on the river.
Other Trails at this Trailhead
From the same parking lot, you can also access the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk Trail.
Tips for Island Loop Trail
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes because roots and rocks can become slippery.
- Bring water, especially during warm temperatures in late summer.
- Start early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler conditions.
- Check river level conditions after heavy rain.
- Carry a trail map or offline navigation app.
- Allow extra time for photography and scenic stops.
- Watch for rock climbers and mountain bikers in nearby recreation zones.
- Combine the hike with scenic drives through the southernmost Sandstone area and Grandview Area for a full day exploring New River Gorge National Park.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles to help preserve the park’s natural beauty.
Accessibility Information for Island Loop Trail
Dirt, Rocks
Paved
Trail Type: Dirt, Rocks
The Island Loop Trail is not fully accessible due to uneven terrain, exposed roots, rocks, and occasional muddy sections. Visitors using mobility devices may find portions difficult to navigate safely.
Parking: Paved
The parking area is generally accessible for standard passenger vehicles, though spaces may be limited during peak travel periods.