Sandstone Falls New River Gorge: How to Visit & What to Expect

One of the most impressive waterfalls in New River Gorge National Park, West Virginia, Sandstone Falls is surprisingly easy to overlook when planning a visit. Stretching 1,500 feet across the New River, this broad waterfall tumbles over sandstone ledges, creating a beautiful landscape of rushing water, rocky islands, and forested hillsides. Unlike many waterfalls that require a challenging hike, Sandstone Falls is accessible via a short boardwalk, making it an excellent stop for families, photographers, and travelers with dogs.

We visited Sandstone Falls in New River Gorge during our scenic New York to Denver road trip, stopping on our way to Kentucky’s Red River Gorge. While the park’s famous New River Gorge Bridge attracts most visitors, Sandstone Falls offers a quieter experience in a beautiful riverside setting. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Sandstone Falls, including how to get there, the best viewpoints, walking trails, and how much time to allow.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. We recommend products we have personally used or verified. Read the full disclosure here.

Don’t have time to read the whole article?
Reserve your car rental today!
Enjoy a day of rafting at New River Gorge!
Find the top hotels along your route!
Don’t forget to bring along a day pack for hiking, a filtered water bottle, and a First aid kit!

Pin this for later!

Quick Look at Sandstone Falls

Where Is Sandstone Falls in New River Gorge?

Sandstone Falls is located in the southern section of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, near the historic railroad town of Hinton, West Virginia.

At approximately 1,500 feet wide, it’s the largest waterfall on the New River. Rather than plunging over a single cliff, the water cascades over a series of sandstone ledges separated by small islands. The falls range from 10 to 25 feet high, creating an impressive series of rapids and waterfalls, where the broad New River begins its journey into the narrower, rugged gorge that gives the national park its name.

How to Get to Sandstone Falls

The most important thing to know before visiting Sandstone Falls is that the waterfall is not directly accessible from Interstate 64 or the Sandstone Visitor Center. Although the falls appear close to the interstate on a map, reaching the main boardwalk requires driving south through Hinton and then following a winding road along the New River, which takes about 45 minutes from the visitor’s center each way. Take Exit 139 from Interstate 64 toward Sandstone and Hinton. After following WV Route 20 South toward Hinton for about 10 miles, cross the New River bridge, turn right onto WV Route 26 (River Road), and follow River Road approximately 8–9 miles to the Sandstone Falls parking area.

Our experience: We underestimated how long it would take to reach Sandstone Falls from our route along I-64. With a long drive still ahead to Red River Gorge in Kentucky, we debated whether to continue. We’re glad we did. The waterfall was one of the highlights of our drive through West Virginia, though we’d recommend allowing more time than we originally planned.

Suggested route: I-64 Exit 139 → Sandstone Falls Overlook → Hinton → Brooks Falls → Sandstone Falls Boardwalk.

Walking the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk

One of the best things about visiting Sandstone Falls is how easy it is to experience the waterfall up close.

The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk is approximately a quarter-mile each way, crossing two bridges and several small islands in the New River. The accessible boardwalk leads to multiple viewing areas, each offering a different perspective on the falls. As you walk, you’ll see water rushing over sandstone ledges, smaller cascades winding around rocky islands, and the main waterfall stretching across the river.

Plan approximately 30–45 minutes to explore the boardwalk, which is relatively flat and suitable for most visitors.

Pro Tip: We saw numerous people fishing off of the rocks next to the boardwalk. Be sure to pick up a West Virginia fishing license if you’d like to spend time fishing in the Sandstone Falls area.

Optional Hike: Sandstone Falls Island Loop Trail

If you have more time, consider exploring the Island Loop Trail, a roughly half-mile nature trail branching off the boardwalk.

The trail winds through a unique environment along the river, with forested islands, rocky terrain, and interesting plant communities.

Unlike the main boardwalk, the Island Loop has natural, uneven surfaces. It’s a good option for visitors who want to explore beyond the main viewpoints without committing to a longer hike.

Best Photography Spots at Sandstone Falls

Sandstone Falls is an excellent destination for landscape photography, especially during autumn when colorful foliage surrounds the river.

Because the waterfall stretches across such a wide area, different viewpoints offer dramatically different compositions.

• Main boardwalk: The easiest location for photographing individual cascades, flowing water, and forested backgrounds.
• Second island: Offers some of the closest views of the main waterfall, with opportunities to capture water tumbling over sandstone ledges.
• Sandstone Falls Overlook: Located along Route 20, this high viewpoint about 600 feet above the waterfall provides a broader perspective on the falls and the New River valley. During the summer, we found the views blocked by the lush foliage. Despite hiking down the steep hill to other possible viewpoints, we were unable to get a good view of the falls.
• River Road: Designated pullouts offer additional opportunities to photograph the New River and surrounding landscape.

Photography tip: Overcast days are ideal for photographing Sandstone Falls. Soft light reduces harsh contrasts between bright water and shaded rocks. A tripod and neutral-density filter can also help create silky-water effects with longer exposures.

Stay on designated trails and viewing areas. Rocks near the waterfall can be slippery, and the river’s powerful currents make entering the water dangerous.

Other Things to See Near Sandstone Falls

If you have an extra hour or two, there are several worthwhile stops along the drive.

• Brooks Falls is located along River Road between Hinton and Sandstone Falls. This scenic stretch of river features powerful rapids flowing over rocky ledges. A short viewing area makes it an easy stop on the way to the main waterfall.
• Historic Hinton is a charming historic railroad town situated along the New River. Its downtown features historic architecture, local restaurants, and a railroad museum. If you’re spending half a day exploring Sandstone Falls, Hinton makes a convenient stop for lunch or a short stroll.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Sandstone Falls?

Sandstone Falls is beautiful throughout the year, with each season offering something different.

• Spring: Higher water levels can make the waterfall particularly powerful, though wet conditions require extra caution.
• Summer: Lush green forests and warmer temperatures make this a pleasant stop on a West Virginia road trip.
• Fall: Colorful foliage frames the waterfall, making autumn particularly appealing for landscape photography.
• Winter: Bare trees provide more open views of the river, though icy roads and slippery surfaces can make access challenging.

Is Sandstone Falls Dog-Friendly?

Yes! Sandstone Falls is a dog-friendly destination within New River Gorge National Park. Leashed dogs are welcome on the main boardwalk and permitted trails. The National Park Service requires leashes no longer than six feet.

The easy walk makes Sandstone Falls a particularly good stop for travelers exploring West Virginia with their dogs. Bring water for your dog, clean up after them, and keep pets away from the river’s edge. The currents around the waterfall are extremely powerful, though we did find a few tranquil spots on inlets just off the island.

How Much Time Do You Need at Sandstone Falls?

For most visitors, allow approximately 2.5–3.5 hours for a round-trip detour from I-64, including time to explore the waterfall.

Here’s how we’d plan a visit:

If you’re simply passing through West Virginia, the detour is manageable, but it’s important to factor it into your day’s driving schedule. If you have more time, consider combining Sandstone Falls with other highlights of New River Gorge National Park, including the famous New River Gorge Bridge, Canyon Rim Visitor Center, and Grandview overlooks.

Is Sandstone Falls Worth Visiting?

Yes, Sandstone Falls is absolutely worth visiting, particularly if you enjoy waterfalls, scenic drives, and beautiful natural attractions that don’t require strenuous hiking. We felt that the peaceful riverside setting differentiates Sandstone Falls from many of the waterfalls we’ve visited.

If you have only a few hours to explore New River Gorge National Park for the first time, I’d prioritize the famous New River Gorge Bridge and nearby canyon overlooks. However, if you’re traveling along I-64 or have a half-day to spare, Sandstone Falls is a wonderful addition to your itinerary.

Final Thoughts: Visiting Sandstone Falls in New River Gorge

Sandstone Falls is one of those places that reminds us why taking the scenic route is often worth the extra time. Although it’s farther from Interstate 64 than you might expect, the combination of a beautiful riverside drive, accessible boardwalk, and impressive waterfall views makes Sandstone Falls a rewarding stop in southern West Virginia.

Whether you’re spending several days exploring New River Gorge National Park or passing through on a longer road trip, Sandstone Falls deserves a place on your itinerary.

For current visitor information, check the National Park Service Sandstone Falls website.

For more inspiration, check out our New York to Denver road trip itinerary to discover other scenic stops, dog-friendly hikes, and hidden gems along the way.

You May Also Enjoy

• Scenic 6-Day New York to Denver Road Trip
• Chicago to Denver Road Trip Taking the Northern Route
• Essential Day Hike Checklist
• Top 10 Trips for Your Solo Road Trip
• Rifle Falls State Park Colorado Winter Guide
• Top 10 Things to Do in Custer State Park South Dakota

If you enjoyed this post, pin it for later!