OFF THE BEATEN PATH: Sandstone Falls
On the south side of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is the river’s breathtaking transition from a meandering body of water to the roaring rapids that are more familiar to the thousands who visit the Fayetteville area of the park.
Sandstone Falls, the largest waterfall on the New River, spans nearly the entire length of the river with drops up to 25 feet. The falls also mark the transition from a calm, broad river to a rushing, boulder-strewn gorge that we think of when we think of the New River.
The best part of the Sandstone Falls area is its openness for whatever you’re up for. It consists of a boardwalk and trail, which fellow blogger Katherine Allen detailed in a previous blog, but also provides areas to swim, fish, sunbathe on a rock, have a picnic or just take in the beautiful scenery from the observation decks.
The day use area is what you make it – and if you’re making the nearly two-hour trip from the Charleston area, you’re going to want to get your gas’ worth – so take your time at the falls!
As previously mentioned, most of the area is accessible by a boardwalk that spans two islands in the New River. There is an island trail that breaks off from the boardwalk and a few well-worn unofficial paths that can be followed around the area.
My favorite part about Sandstone Falls is that while the parking lot may appear busy, there is plenty of space for people to spread out throughout the area, so it has never felt too cramped for me.
The other draw to the area is the city of Hinton – one of the more underrated towns in West Virginia, if you ask me.
The quaint town, nicknamed the southern gateway to the New River Gorge, has an adequate historic district with shops, restaurants and museums and is more than worthy of a stop before or after you hit the falls.
Also check out:
The Market on Courthouse Square - The Market is a must for me every time I’m in Hinton. A repurposed building is home to a restaurant that features a little bit of every, and boy is it good. Its location seemingly right in the heart of the town makes it a great place to grab a bite to eat and enjoy the small town hustle and bustle of Hinton.
The Hinton Dairy Queen - You’ve probably heard about it. It is quite possibly the most famous Dairy Queen in the state and I don’t think it has anything to do with the food. The draw here is the view – the dining rooms sits out over the meandering New River, giving you a pleasant view as you demolish an ice cream cone. It’s an old school joint (some would more harshly call it outdated), but it’s almost always busy with people wanting to see the view for themselves.
Pipestem and Bluestone - If the Sandstone Falls area didn’t whet your appetite enough, you can head south on State Route 20 toward Athens and hit up Bluestone State Park and Pipestem Resort State Park. If anything, stop by and explore a little to cross off a few state parks on your list.
Brush Creek Falls - If you do end up taking State Route 20 down toward Athens, keep going and stop by Brush Creek Falls on your way to Interstate 77 back to wherever you call home. These picturesque falls are relatively easy to get to, making them a must-see for those who chase waterfalls.
