Grandview Rim Trail (New River Gorge) Hiking Guide
Grandview sits above the deepest part of the New River Gorge, and the Rim Trail links its two big viewpoints. It runs from Main Overlook, 1,400 feet above the river, to Turkey Spur, with several overlooks in between. Hike out and back, or leave a second car at Turkey Spur and walk it one way.
Distance and Route
The park lists the Rim Trail at 1.6 miles one way, 3.2 miles round trip, and rates it moderate because of several short, steep hills near Turkey Spur. Hiking Project maps the out-and-back at 3.2 miles with about 420 feet of gain; the park's trail-running page calls it 3.1 miles with about 460 feet of elevation change. The first half mile is the gentlest part, and a self-guided brochure covers it. At Turkey Spur, the park's running page notes about 150 steps up the rock outcrop to three more viewpoints.
Getting There and Parking
From I-64, take exit 129 and follow WV 9 north for six miles to Grandview; the park's address is 4700 Grandview Road, Beaver. Park near the visitor center and walk about a football field's length to Main Overlook. The trail starts beside the benches to the left. Turkey Spur Road gives an easy return or a car shuttle, but the park does not recommend extra-large vehicles on it because the road is narrow and the lot is small.
Castle Rock Loop Option
For a shorter hike, the park suggests pairing the Rim Trail with the Castle Rock Trail. Castle Rock starts near Main Overlook and runs 0.6 mile along the base of tall cliffs and exposed coal seams before meeting the Rim Trail about half a mile out. Together they make a loop of about a mile. The park rates Castle Rock strenuous and does not recommend it for young children, because the footing is uneven and there are steep drop-offs.
Rhododendrons and Wildlife
Grandview is known for its spring show. Purple Catawba rhododendrons usually bloom in mid-May, and white great rhododendrons follow in July, though the park says timing varies from year to year. The trails are also good for wildlife: the park lists deer, fox, box turtles, skinks, wild turkey, ravens and several raptors. From Main Overlook you can see an active rail line and the old town of Quinnimont, where the first coal left the gorge in 1873.
Seasons, Footing and Dogs
The Grandview area is open year-round. The visitor center there is seasonal and closed November through May, so pick up maps and fill bottles at Canyon Rim or Sandstone in the off months. In fall, the park's running page warns that deep leaf litter hides dips and roots, and winter can bring snow. Dogs are fine on the Rim Trail if they stay on a short leash and you pick up after them. Keep them close at the overlooks.
Hiking tips for Grandview Rim Trail (New River Gorge)
- Set up a car shuttle at Turkey Spur if you only want to hike one way.
- Leave the RV at Main Overlook; Turkey Spur Road is narrow with a small lot.
- Add the Castle Rock loop for close-up cliffs, but not with small children.
- Time a spring visit for mid-May if you want the purple rhododendrons.
- Watch your footing in fall, when leaves cover roots and holes.
Nearby trails to explore
- Glade Creek Trail (New River Gorge)
- Sandstone Falls Boardwalk and Island Loop
- Big Branch Trail (New River Gorge)
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Grandview's Rim Trail suits a mixed group, and a one-way hike with a car at Turkey Spur works best with a few drivers. Use TrailMates to find people hiking the New River Gorge, plan the shuttle in the event's group chat, and meet at Main Overlook. Download TrailMates on the App Store or Google Play.