New River Gorge National Park
Sandstone Falls: New River Gorge's Largest Waterfall
It isn't a tall plunge but a broad, roaring curtain of white water stretched 1,500 feet across the New River. Sandstone Falls is the biggest waterfall on the river and one of the easiest major cascades in West Virginia to reach.
Quick Info
- Location
- Near Hinton, Summers County, WV
- Width
- Roughly 1,500 feet across
- Access
- Boardwalk and viewing platforms
- Time Needed
- 1–2 hours
A Waterfall Unlike Any Other in the Gorge
Sandstone Falls marks the transition where the New River leaves its deep, narrow gorge and spreads out across a broad, rocky ledge. Instead of a single drop, the river braids into multiple channels and pours over sandstone shelves in a wide, thundering sheet.
Because the river is so wide and the drop relatively modest — around 10 to 25 feet depending on water level — the experience is less about height and more about raw volume and sound. In high water the whole ledge is white; in low water you can read the red sandstone beneath the flow.
It is the largest waterfall on the New River and one of the most accessible natural spectacles in the national park, thanks to a network of boardwalks on a small island in the middle of the river.
Getting Close
The Boardwalk & Viewing Platforms
From the parking area on River Road, a gravel path leads to a footbridge onto Brooks Island, where an elevated boardwalk and several viewing platforms put you right beside the falls. The walk is short, mostly level and suitable for nearly all visitors.
Two main platforms bookend the island. The lower one looks straight into the main flow, with spray in the air on windy days. A short loop continues through riverbank forest, where herons and other waterbirds are common.
For the fullest experience, continue past the falls along the island's paths where quieter side channels and calm pools contrast with the roar just upstream.
Photography & Best Light
Sandstone Falls faces roughly east, which makes early morning the best time for soft light and mist rising off the water. Midday sun can blow out the white water, so a polarizing filter or a graduated neutral-density filter helps keep detail in the flow.
Because the falls are so wide, a wide-angle lens captures the whole curtain from the island platforms, while a telephoto isolates individual channels and the texture of the sandstone. Long exposures of a quarter-second or slower turn the water silky.
Fall foliage and spring high water are the two most dramatic seasons. After heavy rain the river can turn brown and violent, which is impressive but less photogenic than the deep green of summer flow.
The River & the Railroad Town of Hinton
Sandstone Falls sits just downstream from Hinton, a historic railroad town that grew up where the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway met the New River. Today Hinton's restored downtown, antique shops and riverfront make it a natural companion stop to the falls.
The C&O Railway once ran along this stretch of the New River, and the corridor is now part of the New River Gorge National Park's riverfront. A short drive from Hinton also reaches Bluestone Lake and the winding WV Route 20 scenic route.
Combine Sandstone Falls with a walk around Hinton and a stop at the nearby Sandstone Visitor Center for a full, unhurried day in the southern end of the gorge.
When to See Sandstone Falls
Spring
High water makes the falls powerful and loud, often with wildflowers greening the banks.
Summer
Warm days, lush green shoreline and easier footing on the boardwalk. Afternoon storms can raise the river quickly.
Fall
The most photographed season, with brilliant color framing the white water.
Winter
Quiet and stark, with possible ice formations along the ledges. Watch for slick boardwalks.
Directions to Sandstone Falls
From Hinton, take WV Route 20 north, then turn onto River Road (Route 26/2) and follow it about eight miles to the Sandstone Falls day-use area. The final road is narrow and winding, so drive slowly.
Related Guides
Hub
New River Gorge
The complete destination guide to the gorge.
Waterfalls
WV Waterfall Guide
Every major cascade across the state.
Landmark
The Gorge Bridge
Overlooks and the story of the record span.
Trails
West Virginia Hiking
Trails near the falls and across the gorge.
Camp
Camping
Riverside campgrounds near Hinton.
Drive
WV Road Trips
Loop the gorge and southern highlands.
Sandstone Falls FAQ
Are Sandstone Falls easy to reach?
Yes. A short, mostly level gravel path and footbridge lead to an island boardwalk with viewing platforms, making the falls accessible to most visitors with minimal walking.
Can you swim at Sandstone Falls?
No. The current is powerful and the rocks are slick. This is a viewing area, not a swimming hole. Keep a safe distance from the water and supervise children.
Is there a fee to visit?
No. There is no entrance fee for Sandstone Falls or New River Gorge National Park. The day-use area is free and open year-round, weather permitting.
How far is Sandstone Falls from the New River Gorge Bridge?
About 30 miles, or roughly 35 to 40 minutes by car. Many visitors see the bridge, Grandview and Sandstone Falls in a single day of driving the rim and river roads.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel publication devoted to the Mountain State. We chase waterfalls, note the best light and mileage, and share guides that help you spend less time guessing and more time exploring. Read our story →