Grandview

 

Grandview became part of New River Gorge National River in 1990, after more than 50 years as one of West Virginia's most popular day use state parks. It is well known for its spectacular views of the New River and beautiful rhododendron.

 

Catawba rhododendrons in bloom at Grandview

Grandview is a peaceful place to relax and unwind while enjoying outstanding views of the New River. At the Main Overlook, 1400 feet above the river, you see an active railway and the town of Quinnimont, where the first coal was shipped out of the gorge in 1873. Don't miss the views from Turkey Spur Overlook, and be sure to walk the woodland trails.

Features

The Grandview section of the park features include overlooks of the New River, a visitor center (open seasonally), five hiking trails, ranger-led walks and talks, summer outdoor dramas, and picnic areas with playgrounds. Information about renting picnic shelters at Grandview can be found on the Fees and Reservations page of this website.

 

Hiking Trails at Grandview:For information about hiking trails at Grandview and to download a trail map, visit the Grandview Trails page.

 

Theatre West Virginia: Grandview is home to Theatre West Virginia, which features outdoor drama presentations from June through August. Call 1-800-666-9142 for more information.

 

Grandview Photo Gallery: For a collection of photographs of the Grandview area, please visit our Grandview Photo Gallery.

 

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  Explore the Gorge: Grandview

  Explore the fantastic views, wildlife, and history of the Grandview area with Park Ranger Renee Hemmelgarn.
  
  

  Date created:

  2012-09-27

  Video Transcript

  Welcome to Grandview, one of the many beautiful sites of the New River Gorge National River.  Grandview is one of the most popular day use areas of the park with access to hiking trails, picnic shelters, and even a playground for the kids.  This visitor center is open Memorial Day through Labor Day to answer any questions you may have.  Many people still remember when this area was Grandview State Park, but it has been a part of the New River Gorge National River since 1990.
  
  Here at the main overlook, you are 1400 feet above the river and you can see seven miles of the New River from this one spot alone!  This stretch of the river, called Horseshoe Bend, is popular among fisherman and family rafting trips looking for a little adventure.  You can also see the town of Quinnimont where coal was first shipped out of the gorge in 1873.  And you can still watch trains travel the lines that were once laid for the historic C&O railroad.
  
  On the cliffs of the gorge, and in some of the parking lots, you can see the beautiful Catawba rhododendron whose pink flowers bloom around May of each year.  This southern species is at the northern end of its range and was carried here by the north flowing New River.  You can also see the Great rhododendron whose white flowers bloom a little later in early July.
  
  If you’re up for a hike, choose one of the many trails including the Grandview rim trail.  It is 1.6 miles long and ends at the Turkey Spur Overlook, which provides a breathtaking view of a section of the river called Stretcher’s Neck.  You can also drive to this overlook, but there are a few flights of stairs to the top.  Also keep your eyes out along the way for peregrine falcons, which have been released in the area during a recent reintroduction program.
  
  If you’re here at dusk, make a house call to the bat condo, home to thousands of big and little brown bats each summer.  They make a spectacular exit about a half hour before sunset, so come and get your seat early!
  
  With activities for children young and old, visiting Grandview is a great way to spend your day.  So come explore and enjoy Grandview, in the New River Gorge National River.
  

 

Directions

To reach Grandview from Beckley follow I-64 East five miles to Exit 129 B. From Lewisburg follow I-64 West forty miles to Exit 129. From either exit, turn right and follow Route 9 North six miles to Grandview.

Season and Hours

Area open year-round. Visitor Center open June through August: Daily from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed fall, winter, and spring.

Telephone

304-763-3715