Grandview Main Overlook
Breathtaking, easily accessible overlook offering panoramic views of the New River Gorge's iconic horseshoe bend.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour magic
Grandview Main Overlook
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking, easily accessible overlook offering panoramic views of the New River Gorge's iconic horseshoe bend.
"Jaw-dropping view of the New River Gorge that looks especially amazing."
🚶♀️ Easy Access, Big Reward
No strenuous hike needed! A short, paved walk from the parking lot leads to the stunning Main Overlook.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The Main Overlook offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grandview Main Overlook
Adjacent to Grandview Visitor Center
Jaw-dropping 1,400-foot drop into the New River Gorge, showcasing a dramatic horseshoe bend.
Horseshoe Bend View
Grandview Main Overlook
Witness the iconic, sweeping curve of the New River carving through the gorge.
Castle Rock Trail
Starts left of Main Overlook
A short, wild trail offering unique perspectives and a touch of adventure.
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Planning Your Visit
Effortless Views, Big Impact
Timing is Everything for the Best Light
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy Access, Big Reward
No strenuous hike needed! A short, paved walk from the parking lot leads to the stunning Main Overlook.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The Main Overlook offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a lunch! The overlook area is ideal for a scenic picnic break.
🥾 Explore Beyond the Overlook
Consider the Rim Trail or Castle Rock Trail for more exploration if you have time.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy Access, Big Reward
No strenuous hike needed! A short, paved walk from the parking lot leads to the stunning Main Overlook.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The Main Overlook offers incredible photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
🧺 Picnic with a View
Pack a lunch! The overlook area is ideal for a scenic picnic break.
🥾 Explore Beyond the Overlook
Consider the Rim Trail or Castle Rock Trail for more exploration if you have time.
🚻 Facilities Available
Restrooms, a visitor center, and a playground are conveniently located nearby.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Grandview Main Overlook for its stunning, easily accessible views of the New River Gorge, often comparing it to the iconic horseshoe bend. Many appreciate the short, paved walk from the parking lot and the availability of amenities like restrooms and a playground, making it a convenient and enjoyable stop for all. Some mention that while the main overlook is spectacular, exploring the nearby trails offers a deeper connection with nature.
"Beautiful overview of the river with easy access. Highly recommend stopping by for a picture and a quiet moment to enjoy incredible natural wonders. The walk from the parking lot to the overview is short and paved. There are other trails that can be accessed from the same area. There is a playground for kids, a visitor store, and bathrooms."
John Cochran
"Horseshoe bend in river was neat. Tunnel Trail was great! Took Rim Trail to another viewpoint of the bend. Could see RR tracks along the river. Lots of parking, real bathrooms and a playground!"
Ginger Staton
"Beautiful overlook with a great parking area and easy access. The wooden platform offers amazing views of the gorge — perfect for taking photos and catching a stunning sunrise. Definitely a must-stop spot when visiting New River Gorge!"
Melissa Jack
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Grandview Main Overlook is easily accessible by car. It's located within the Grandview area of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. Follow signs for Grandview from the main park roads. There's ample parking right near the overlook.
No, the Main Overlook is very accessible. A short, paved walk of about 200 yards from the parking lot leads directly to the viewpoint. It's perfect for all fitness levels.
Yes, you can drive directly to the Grandview Main Overlook. There is a dedicated parking area adjacent to the overlook, making it incredibly convenient.
Yes, Grandview is a short, less than ten-minute drive from the highway, making it an excellent stop for a quick break during a road trip.
From I-64 East or West, take Exit 125 for US-19 South towards Beckley. Continue on US-19 S for about 10 miles, then take the WV-97 E exit towards Beaver/Grandview. Follow WV-97 E for approximately 5 miles, then turn right onto Grandview Road. Follow signs for Grandview State Park and the Main Overlook.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Grandview Main Overlook or the Grandview area of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. It's free to access and enjoy the stunning views.
The Grandview Main Overlook is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The Grandview Visitor Center has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally.
No advance booking is required for Grandview Main Overlook. It's a public viewpoint within the national park, and you can visit anytime during park hours.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions for visiting the Main Overlook, other than standard park rules regarding safety, littering, and respecting the natural environment.
Yes, Grandview Main Overlook is accessible in winter, weather permitting. While some trails might be affected by snow or ice, the main overlook area is typically kept clear for visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The primary activity is enjoying the spectacular views of the New River Gorge. You can also take short walks on paved paths, have a picnic, visit the visitor center, and access other trails like Castle Rock Trail.
Yes, the Castle Rock Trail starts near the Main Overlook, and the Rim Trail connects to other viewpoints. The Grandview Rim Trail also offers a longer hiking option.
Absolutely! The overlook provides stunning panoramic views that are fantastic for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light is most dramatic.
Yes, there is a Grandview Visitor Center located near the Main Overlook, offering information about the park and its features.
Yes, restrooms are available near the parking lot and visitor center at Grandview, making it a convenient stop.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly at the Grandview Main Overlook. However, the visitor center may offer some snacks or drinks. It's best to pack your own food or plan to dine in nearby towns like Beckley.
Yes, the Grandview Main Overlook area is an excellent spot for a picnic. There are scenic spots to enjoy your meal while taking in the views.
Nearby towns like Beckley offer a variety of dining options, from fast food to local restaurants. It's recommended to check local listings for current choices.
While not a full-service cafe, the Grandview Visitor Center sometimes has limited snack options available. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments.
Expect typical American fare in nearby towns, including diners, fast-food chains, and some local eateries offering regional specialties.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, when the light casts a warm glow on the gorge. Fall colors also make for stunning autumn photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive gorge views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on details along the river or distant features. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
The main viewing platform offers the most iconic shots. For different perspectives, explore the short trails like Castle Rock Trail, which provide unique angles of the gorge.
Drone usage in National Parks is regulated. You must follow all FAA rules and NPS regulations. Check the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve website for current drone policies before flying.
The dramatic horseshoe bend of the New River, the sheer gorge walls, and the vast expanse of the forested landscape are the most photogenic elements. The changing seasons, especially fall foliage, add immense beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There's also a playground located near the visitor center, providing a great spot for kids to burn off energy before or after taking in the scenery. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots around the overlook. The ease of access and the availability of facilities like restrooms make it a stress-free outing for parents. For families with slightly older children who enjoy a bit of adventure, the short Castle Rock Trail offers a taste of exploration without being overly challenging.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
There's ample parking right at the overlook, and the short, paved path means you can enjoy the iconic horseshoe bend view without needing to pack hiking gear. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, snap some memorable photos, and enjoy a packed lunch before continuing your journey.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset is highly recommended for capturing the most stunning light and atmospheric shots. +1Beyond the main viewpoint, the Castle Rock Trail and Rim Trail offer diverse photographic angles and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the gorge. The fall foliage season is particularly spectacular, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of colors, making it a prime location for landscape photography.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grandeur of the Grandview Main Overlook
This overlook is particularly famous for its easy access, making it a must-visit for travelers of all ages and abilities. It’s an ideal spot for a quick photo opportunity, a peaceful moment of reflection, or a delightful picnic lunch. The surrounding area also offers amenities like restrooms and a visitor center, enhancing the overall visitor experience. For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Castle Rock Trail and the Rim Trail begin near the Main Overlook, offering opportunities to explore the gorge from different vantage points.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day for the best photographic opportunities. Sunrise and sunset bathe the gorge in a warm, golden light, creating a truly magical atmosphere. The fall season is another prime time, as the deciduous forests erupt in a riot of color, transforming the landscape into a vibrant masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or simply looking for an awe-inspiring view with minimal effort, the Grandview Main Overlook delivers an unforgettable experience.
Exploring Trails from Grandview
+1For a more extended exploration, the Grandview Rim Trail provides a longer loop. A significant portion of this trail connects the Main Overlook to the Turkey Spur Overlook, another fantastic viewpoint that is particularly renowned for its sunrise and sunset vistas. This trail offers a more immersive experience in the park's diverse ecosystems. Visitors can choose to hike the full loop or sections of it, depending on their time and energy levels.
Redditors often highlight the value of exploring these trails to gain a more comprehensive appreciation of the gorge. While the Main Overlook offers immediate gratification, the trails provide a chance to experience the solitude and raw beauty of the New River Gorge National Park. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and carry water, especially if you plan on undertaking longer hikes.
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