New River Gorge National Park & Preserve

Trail Run Grandview Rim Trail

easy Trail RunnersFamiliesGorge Views
3.1 mi Distance
Varies Estimated Time
roundtrip Trail Type

What to Expect

This is a runner's trail that doubles as one of the most scenic easy walks in the gorge. Starting from the Grandview Visitor Center, you'll warm up on a short paved stretch to the Main Overlook, where the New River reveals itself hundreds of feet below in a sweeping panorama that stops most people mid-stride. From there, the out-and-back route follows the rim on a packed dirt path tunneling through a thick rhododendron corridor that feels almost tropical in summer. The footing is generally forgiving — firm dirt with occasional roots — making it ideal for trail running or a relaxed stroll. At just over three miles round trip with minimal elevation change, this is the kind of trail where the views do all the heavy lifting. Perfect for runners who want scenery without suffering, families looking for a low-commitment gorge experience, or anyone who appreciates a trail that punches well above its weight class.
Trail RunnersFamiliesGorge ViewsEasy AccessDog Owners

Safety Advisory

In fall, leaf litter blankets the trail and hides dips, divots, and uneven terrain — slow your pace and watch your footing, especially if you're running. A rolled ankle out here is an easy way to ruin a good day.

The trail follows the gorge rim, and while it's not technical, some sections pass close to steep drop-offs with limited barriers — keep kids and dogs close, and stay on the established path.

Trail Details

Distance 3.1 miles round-trip
Difficulty easy
Estimated Time Varies
Trail Type roundtrip
Pets Dogs allowed (leash required)
Season This trail is open year round. During the summer there is a heavy canopy of Rhododendrons to keep the air cool. Druing the Fall, there can be a large amount of leaf litter that can make running this route a bit hazardous due to divets and dips not being apparent due to the leaves obscuring the view. The winter is great, but can be prone to snow. 
Trailhead Trail Run Grandview Rim Trail

Pro Tips

Trail Tip

Park near the Grandview Visitor Center and use the short walk to the Main Overlook as your warm-up — it's roughly a hundred yards and gets your legs moving before you hit the dirt.

Trail Tip

Summer runs here are surprisingly comfortable thanks to the dense rhododendron canopy acting as natural air conditioning, so don't skip a midday run just because of the heat — the shade cover is legit.

Trail Tip

The Main Overlook is the marquee photo spot, but keep your eyes open along the rim trail itself for secondary viewpoints where the canopy breaks — these less-trafficked gaps give you cleaner angles of the gorge without other visitors in your frame.

Photos

Getting There

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