Long Point Overlook

Long Point is a rocky rim overlook above New River Gorge, known for its straight-on view of the New River Gorge Bridge. Getting there is an out-and-back hike of about 3.2 miles, not a roadside stop. The route is moderate: most of it is a gentle walk through fields and forest, followed by a steep, rocky section near the point and an uphill return.

The trail rises over exposed rock as it reaches the overlook. The ledge has unprotected cliff edges, so keep back, especially with children or anyone unsteady. Visitors uneasy with heights may find the exposed platform uncomfortable.

From US 19, follow WV 16 south through Fayetteville, turn left onto Gatewood Road (signed for Kaymoor and Cunard), continue 1.9 miles, then turn left onto Newton Road. The trailhead parking is 50 yards ahead on the left. The trailhead has auto parking and a vault/composting toilet; carry water for the walk. Mountain bikes are allowed on the route except for its final 0.2 mile, where a rack marks the point to leave them.

From the rock ledge, the bridge spans forested ridges while the river lies far below; only part of the river is visible from this angle. For a stronger sense of scale in a photo, include the ledge rocks in the foreground and the bridge stretching across the gorge. Groups sometimes share the point, so an open angle may take a little patience.

The New River Gorge Bridge is 3,030 feet 6 inches long, and its 1,700-foot steel arch carries US 19 across a gorge where the river is 876 feet below. The arch held the world's longest steel-arch record until 2003; it remains the longest single-span steel arch bridge in the United States. Before the bridge, the crossing at this location took about 45 minutes on winding roads; the bridge reduced it to less than a minute.

Near the trail's first 0.2 mile, an interpretive marker identifies New Camp, a former residential community on the rim for Kaymoor mine workers. Kaymoor was established in 1899 to supply coal for the Low Moor Iron Company's furnaces; its first coal shipments left in 1900, and employee housing began in 1901. The short stop adds a human story to a route now known for its view.