Sandstone Falls Boardwalk

Sandstone Falls Boardwalk is an easy, accessible wooden walkway from the riverside parking area to island observation decks on the New River. Walk about 0.23 mile to the falls and return on the same path for a 0.46-mile out-and-back; allow about 30 minutes with time at the overlooks. The falls spread across roughly 1,500 feet, broken by islands, with drops of about 10 to 25 feet. The payoff is the broad, changing view rather than a tall plunge.

The boardwalk crosses two bridges to the islands, with several viewpoints and access to fishing areas. It is listed as accessible, though exact grades and equipment clearances are not published. The trailhead has an unpaved parking area and a vault or composting toilet. Dogs are allowed on park trails on a physical leash no longer than six feet. There is no drinking water at trailheads, so bring what you need for people and pets.

The route passes through an Appalachian riverside flatrock plant community found at only a few high-energy rivers in the region; some of its plants occur nowhere else in New River Gorge. From the last deck, include the river in the foreground to show how far the low falls stretch. If you want a longer walk, the separate 0.5-mile Island Loop Trail circles the largest island. That land was once farmed, grazed and timbered, and a grist mill operated there; old fields are gradually returning to forest.