Capture the Untamed Beauty of New River Gorge National Park
As one of the newest U.S. national parks, New River Gorge National Park is still relatively unknown. This beautiful area in the Appalachian Mountains has been popular within the region for many years and was formerly known as New River Gorge National River before being elevated to national park status in 2021.
The New River, which ironically is not new at all but considered one of the oldest rivers in the world, is popular for outdoor recreation like whitewater rafting, climbing, hiking, fishing, and more. Although it’s well known in West Virginia and surrounding states, most Americans aren’t familiar with the park and what it offers.
The hidden gem is slowly capturing the attention of landscape photographers. With its breathtaking vistas, diverse terrains, and rich natural beauty, the New River Gorge has plenty to offer.
New River Gorge National Park covers over 70,000 acres as the river meanders through a deep gorge and lush forests. The park features towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, expansive overlooks, and one of the most picturesque bridges in the U.S.
Best Photo Spots in New River Gorge National Park
Here are a few of the highlights of the park for photographers.
New River Gorge Bridge
Spanning 3,000+ feet across the gorge, this bridge is the subject of many photos. A few different vantage points can be accessed from the visitor’s center parking lot. It can also be seen and photographed from several roads and overlooks, as well as from the bottom of the gorge.
Sandstone Falls
Sandstone Falls is a must-visit spot for landscape photographers. These unique waterfalls stretch across the New River, creating a very wide (about 1,500 feet) series of cascades that offer endless options for photos. A visitor’s center at Sandstone Falls with a walkway provides easy access to a view of the falls.
I found Sandstone Falls to be much more beautiful and impressive in person than it looks in photos. It wasn’t one of the spots I was looking forward to seeing in the New River Gorge, but it was easily one of my favorites.
Grandview Overlook
True to its name, Grandview Overlook provides a sweeping panorama of the New River Gorge. This location is perfect for capturing wide, expansive shots that show off the vast landscape. It’s also one of the best places in the park for sunrise photography. The only morning I was at Grandview was very foggy (photo below). I couldn’t see the river, but it was still an incredible view.
During fall, you can witness and photograph a colorful spectacle as the foliage turns vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold. The overlook is easily accessible and offers several trails that lead to different perspectives.
Beauty Mountain
Beauty Mountain is a hidden treasure within New River Gorge National Park, offering dramatic cliffside views. It’s one of the best spots in the park for sunset views. You can catch a view from the Beauty Mountain Trail, or find a spot to park along the side of the road. Use these GPS coordinates for a small parking area: 38.045894, -81.024404.
Endless Wall Trail
Named for its seemingly never-ending rock faces, the Endless Wall Trail is one of the park’s highlights. This trail winds through dense woods and along the cliffs, offering several overlooks with jaw-dropping views of the gorge below.
Long Point Trail
Long Point Trail is a picturesque hike that leads to one of the park’s most iconic views—the New River Gorge Bridge framed by the lush landscape. The trail (1.5 miles each way) winds through forests and meadows before leading to the breathtaking overlook.
Dunloup Falls
Tucked away near the town of Thurmond, Dunloup Falls is a small but picturesque waterfall, and one of my favorite spots in the park. The falls are easily accessible (roadside) and shouldn’t be missed.
Seasonal Opportunities for Photography
The New River Gorge has plenty to offer in each season. Understanding these seasonal shifts can help photographers plan their visits to capture the park’s full glory.
Fall Foliage
Autumn transforms New River Gorge into a show of vibrant colors, making it one of the best times for landscape photography. The trees burst into hues of orange, red, and yellow, creating a striking contrast against the park’s rugged cliffs and the sky.
Winter Landscapes
Winter offers the opportunity to capture the landscape with a different feel. After a snowstorm, you can photograph the snow-covered landscape, and possibly frozen waterfalls.
Spring and Summer
Spring and summer bring life and vibrancy back to the park, with lush greenery, wildflowers, and a flowing river (and waterfalls) providing plenty of opportunities for nature and macro photography.
Final Thoughts
New River Gorge National Park offers something for every landscape photographer. Whether you’re drawn to the sweeping vistas from Grandview Overlook, the incredible views of the bridge, or the tranquil charm of Dunloup Falls, this park invites you to explore and capture its diverse landscapes. The park’s beauty changes with the seasons, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
While you’re in the area, you should also visit Babcock State Park and photograph the iconic Glade Creek Grist Mill.
