Turkey Spur Overlook

Multi-platform perch with near-360 views of the New River

InsideNew River Gorge National Park

Overview

Turkey Spur Overlook is the crown of the Grandview area—an airy series of boardwalks and platforms perched atop Turkey Spur Rock with sweeping, near-360° views of the New River and its deep, forested gorge. It feels different from the main Grandview Overlook: more angles, more drama, and a satisfying sense of height once you’ve climbed the stairs.

What You’ll See

Multiple platforms deliver varied perspectives of the river’s broad bends and ridgelines. Some angles are partially framed by trees, but the payoff viewpoints are expansive. On warm days, you’ll likely notice a cool draft wafting between the big boulders on the approach—nature’s air conditioner.

Getting There

You have two good options:

Drive: Follow the narrow, winding Turkey Spur Road to a tiny lot at the end (roughly 5–10 spaces). You can glimpse views from near the parking area, but the best vistas require climbing about 150 wooden steps to the top platforms.
Hike: From Grandview’s Main Overlook, take the Grandview Rim Trail about 1.6 miles one way (moderate overall, with short steep bits near Turkey Spur). Many people turn this into a longer loop by linking Tunnel Trail and Castle Rock Trail with the rim walk for roughly 4 miles and about 2 hours of mellow hiking.

On the Stairs and Boardwalks

Expect roughly 150 wooden steps, occasional benches, and several distinct overlooks up top. The wood can be slick when wet—take it slow after rain or in damp conditions.

Facilities and Logistics

There are no restrooms or drinking water at Turkey Spur. Use the facilities at Grandview, where parking is ample; a restroom with running water is open year‑round, and the visitor center operates seasonally. Picnic shelters sit along the road toward Turkey Spur.

History Note

The overlook’s stair and boardwalk system was rebuilt and reopened in 2017 after a 2015 arson fire damaged the structure. What you climb today is the improved, modern version.

Best Time to Visit

Light and comfort: Early morning or late afternoon gives softer light and cooler temps. The platforms are fully exposed, so midday can be hot on sunny days.
Crowds and parking: The small lot fills quickly on weekends and peak seasons—hiking from Grandview is the stress‑free move when it’s busy.
Weather: After rain, expect slick stairs and boardwalks.

Pets

Leashed dogs are welcome on the trails and at the overlook. The stairs can be a workout for pups, so bring water for them too.

Pros

Near-360° views from multiple platforms
Reachable by short drive or scenic rim hike

Cons

Very small parking lot that fills quickly
No water or restrooms at the overlook

Tips

Arrive early or late; the tiny lot fills and the platforms are full sun.
Consider hiking from Grandview’s Main Overlook to skip parking hassles.
Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen—there’s no shade or drinking water at the top.
Watch your footing; the wooden steps and boardwalks can be slick when wet.
Feel for the cool draft between the boulders on the way up—it’s a natural AC.