The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, flowing north rather than south like most rivers in the region.
The Main Overlook provides a view of the river where it makes a sharp U-turn, which is a rare geological formation in this section of the gorge.
The park was originally a state park before becoming part of the National Park Service system.
The sandstone cliffs at Grandview are part of the Pottsville Formation, deposited during the Pennsylvanian Period.
The site hosts a seasonal floral display of rhododendrons, which typically bloom in late spring and early summer.
Grandview is a prominent unit of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, situated on a high plateau 1,400 feet above the New River. The site is best known for its series of overlooks that provide a horseshoe-bend view of the river winding through the gorge. Hikers access a network of trails ranging from the accessible Main Overlook path to the more rugged North and South Rim trails. During the summer months, the outdoor amphitheater hosts the outdoor drama 'Hatfield and McCoys' or other seasonal performances. The area features extensive picnic groves equipped with tables and grills. Geological features include massive sandstone cliffs formed over millions of years. Visitors can observe diverse Appalachian flora and fauna within the forested canopy surrounding the gorge rim.
The Main Overlook railing, which offers a direct, unobstructed view of the river's deep horseshoe bend.
Bring binoculars to spot rafters on the river far below and raptors such as hawks or peregrine falcons soaring near the cliff face.
The trail to the Main Overlook is paved and wheelchair accessible, while the rim trails involve uneven, rocky terrain.
Wear sturdy hiking boots if you intend to explore the longer, unpaved trails that descend from the plateau.
Do not attempt to climb the rock faces or approach the cliff edges outside of designated observation areas, as the sandstone is brittle.
Park grounds are open year-round, but specific facilities like the amphitheater and some picnic areas operate primarily from spring through autumn.
Stay on marked trails to protect fragile cliff-edge vegetation and prevent erosion; keep pets on a leash at all times.
