Sandstone Falls Overlook offers sweeping views of West Virginia’s largest waterfall and the dramatic transition of the New River.
Overview
When most people think about New River Gorge National Park, they picture the iconic New River Gorge Bridge, the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, or the rugged trails that descend into the gorge. While those destinations are certainly worth visiting, one of our favorite stops was Sandstone Falls Overlook. Located along scenic New River Road near the park’s southern gateway, this easy roadside viewpoint provides incredible views of the largest waterfall in West Virginia without requiring a hike.
The overlook gives visitors a unique perspective on the New River as it transforms from a narrow mountain river flowing through a V-shaped gorge into a broad river of large bottomlands. From this elevated vantage point, you can appreciate the scale of Sandstone Falls, the series of islands that divide the river, and the natural beauty that makes this section of New River Gorge National Park so special.
The landscape surrounding Sandstone Falls Overlook tells the story of millions of years of geological change. The falls were formed where the New River crosses a hard sandstone layer that is more resistant to erosion than the softer conglomerate rock layers downstream. As the river carved its way through the Appalachian Mountains, these differing rock layers created the dramatic interface of the New River that visitors see today.
This area marks the transition zone of the New River, where the river begins its final descent toward the Kanawha River. The combination of powerful water, deep boulder fields, and resistant rock formations has created one of the most unique natural areas in the eastern United States. The region is also home to rare plant communities, including southern plant species that thrive in this dynamic geological environment.
Look for this NPS sign as you get close to the overlook to find the parking area
When you park, you will walk down the inclined path to the left of the restroom building
Sandstone Falls Overlook Plan
While researching New River Gorge National Park, the first thing that kept coming up was, of course, doing the famous Bridge Walk. But the next thing on most lists was Sandstone Falls. When I saw the photos, I knew we needed to make it a stop on our trip. The first glimpse of this waterfall comes from high above at the Sandstone Falls Overlook. As with most of the parks we visit, we were listening to the GuideAlong App, which suggested making this stop.
The view of the overlook from the parking area
There is a short brick wall at the edge of the overlook
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 access points, including the Canyon Rim area near Fayetteville and the southern sections near Sandstone and Hinton.
This region is known for its rugged terrain, scenic rivers, and rich biodiversity within the New River watershed. Sandstone Falls sits at the southern end of the park, making it a perfect stop if you’re entering from WV-20 S or exploring beyond the more central overlooks.
Best Time to Go
Spring and fall are the best times to visit. Spring brings a powerful flow of the New River, making the falls especially dramatic, while fall offers vibrant foliage and crisp weather. Summer is great for a scenic drive and exploring river access points, though strong currents mean swimming is not recommended.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for scenic views and that perfect aerial view of the falls from observation decks. Winter can be quiet and peaceful, though some areas may be less accessible.
If you are too far to the right, the trees will block your view
Move to your left to get better views of the waterfall
Sandstone Falls
Who Can Go?
One of the best things about Sandstone Falls Overlook is its accessibility. Since the viewpoint is located just a short walk from the parking area, visitors of nearly all ages and ability levels can enjoy it.
Families, photographers, road trippers, and visitors who may not want to tackle longer hikes can all appreciate the overlook. It’s also a great stop for anyone looking to experience New River Gorge National Park without spending much time on trails.
What You'll See
The highlight of the overlook is the panoramic view of Sandstone Falls and the surrounding river valley. From this elevated position, visitors can see:
- The largest waterfall in West Virginia
- The broad river of large bottomlands below
- The series of islands that divide the river
- Mile-long Brooks Island
- The transition of the New River as it approaches the Kanawha River
- Scenic views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains
- The dramatic interface of the New River and its changing landscape
- Great riverside vistas stretching across the valley
- The powerful flow of the New River moving toward its final rush downstream
The overlook provides an excellent aerial view of the falls and helps visitors understand the scale of this remarkable section of the New River watershed. After seeing it from above, we knew we needed to drive to the overlook at the base of the fall as well.
You can see Sandstone Falls between the trees in the fall
In the summer, when the trees are full, your view may be hindered by the trees
What to Bring & Wear
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the short walk to the overlook. Bring water, especially in warmer months. And, of course, don’t forget a camera!
Where to Go
To reach Sandstone Falls Overlook, head toward the community of Sandstone and follow signs for New River Road. This scenic drive is considered one of the park’s most scenic roads and follows the river through some beautiful sections of the southern park.
Shortly after beginning the drive, you’ll reach the Sandstone Falls Overlook parking lot. From the parking area, it’s only a brief walk to the viewpoint. The overlook serves as an excellent starting point before continuing farther down New River Road toward the Sandstone Visitor Center, Sandstone Falls Day Use Area, and the Sandstone Falls boardwalk.
Because of its elevated position, many visitors feel the overlook actually provides a better understanding of the falls than the closer viewpoints near the water.
Close-up of Sandstone Falls as seen from the overlook
How Long Does it Take?
Most visitors spend about 15 minutes at Sandstone Falls Overlook. The viewpoint itself doesn’t require much walking, but many people stay longer to enjoy the scenery, take photographs, and watch the river below.
If you’re exploring New River Road and other nearby attractions, plan to spend additional time enjoying the scenic drive.
Cost
Like most destinations within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, Sandstone Falls Overlook is free to visit. There are no entrance fees, parking fees, or overlook access fees.
Tips for Sandstone Falls
- Arrive early or late in the day for fewer crowds and softer lighting
- Bring a camera since the overlook offers some of the best scenic views in the southern park.
- Combine the overlook with a visit to the Sandstone Visitor Center.
- Continue down New River Road to see Sandstone Falls from additional viewpoints.
- Allow time to explore nearby Hinton and its historic district.
- Watch for wildlife along the scenic drive.
- Visit during spring for the most impressive water flow.
- Stop at multiple pullouts along New River Road for additional river views.
- Pack snacks and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere away from the busier sections of the park.
- Include the overlook as part of a full-day itinerary that also visits the Canyon Rim Visitor Center and the New River Gorge Bridge.