The Sandstone Falls

Visitors on the boardwalk at Sandstone Falls

The largest waterfall on the New River, Sandstone Falls spans the river where it is 1500 feet wide. Divided by a series of islands, the river drops 10 to 25 feet.

Sandstone Falls is located on the north-flowing New River, 8.5 miles north of Hinton, WV. Take River Road (Rt. 26) from the west end of the Rt. 20 bridge in Hinton. drive slowly as much of River Road is one lane. At Sandstone falls, an accessible boardwalk crosses two bridges leading to islands and observation decks offering views below the falls.

Floods, Farms and Flatrock
Natural and human forces have impacted the landscape around Sandstone Falls. An unusual ecosystem, the Appalachian Riverside Flatrock Community, surrounds the falls. Floods have periodically swept over the hard horizontal sandstone, carrying away soil and vegetation. Only plants that can withstand these conditions survive.

New River Gorge National River asks that you both enjoy and protect Sandstone Falls - a beautiful example of nature's richness and resilience.

Sandstone Falls is a popular fishing spot for smallmouth bass and catfish: a West Virginia fishing licience is required. The river around Sandstone Falls has been the site of several drownings - always wear a lifejacket when in or near the water.

Sandstone Falls Photo Gallery