New River Gorge National River - Grandview Main Overlook - Hiking trail near Beckley, West Virginia, United States - Description

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. The park is well known for its spectacular views of the New River and beautiful rhododendron.

Grandview is a peaceful place to relax and unwind while enjoying views of the New River. Park rangers will answer your questions and orient you to the park. 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.

Main Overlook:

The view from the Main Overlook includes seven miles of the New River. The river, 1400 feet below, originates in the mountains of western North Carolina, and flows north to its confluence with the Gauley River to form the Kanawha River. The railroad tracks below are still active, and once served as the main line for the Chesapeake & Ohio Railway. The town of Quinnimont, and its railroad yard, are visible from the overlook.

* 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.