Grandview (New River Gorge National Park & Preserve)

Glen Jean, WV

Grandview provides some of the most dramatic scenery found in the park and is a popular place for hiking, picnicking, and sight seeing.

Grandview is a peaceful place to relax and unwind while enjoying outstanding views of the New River. From 1400 feet above the river at Main Overlook, visitors are rewarded with one of the most outstanding views in the park. On a clear day you can see directly into the heart of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve, including seven miles of the New River and its watershed. From Main Overlook visitors can also get a glimpse of some of the gorge's unique cultural history. From here 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.

Grandview is a great place to see the spectacular displays of Catawba rhododendrons that bloom here every spring. The purple Catawba rhododendrons bloom in mid May, while the white great rhododendrons bloom in July. The exact bloom times are not always consistent year to year, so check with a ranger at one of our visitor centers or check our facebook page for updates.

The Grandview section of the park includes 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 Permits and Reservations page of our website. Grandview is home to Theatre West Virginia, which features outdoor drama presentations from June through August.

Grandview was originally a part of the West Virginia State Park system. In 1939, the state of West Virginia purchased 52 acres of land at Grandview to develop a day use park. The Civilian Conservation Corps built roads, shelters, and a picnic area, all still in use today. Construction began in 1960 on the 1200-seat Cliffside Amphitheater. The children’s playgrounds, recreation area, and additional walkways were built from 1961 to 1964. After more than 50 years as one of West Virginia’s most popular state parks, Grandview was transferred to the National Park Service in 1990.

Trip Inspiration

5 Must-Stays in West Virginia's Northern Panhandle

In West Virginia, there is an array of stays that you can't find elsewhere. That is especially the case in the Northern Panhandle, where yo...

Read More

Explore These Four Entertainment Towns in the Northern Panhandle

In the burrow of the Appalachian Mountains you'll find the Northern Panhandle, one of only two panhandles in West Virginia, where the scene...

Read More

These 4 Historic Sights in the Northern Panhandle Will Surprise You

The Northern Panhandle is the northernmost section of West Virginia – nestled between Pennsylvania and Ohio. This travel region boasts th...

Read More

5 May Events You Won't Want to Miss in West Virginia

As the colder temperatures part ways with Almost Heaven, vibrant flowers and plants rejuvenate the mountains for yet another beautiful spri...

Read More

Elevated Getaways for the Luxury Explorer

Natural in beauty, Almost Heaven has no shortage of extravagant views. Witness these stellar sights while lodging at a luxury location and ...

Read More

3 Late-Night Adventures to Try This Spring in West Virginia

As the chill of winter fades away, the spring awakening in West Virginia begins. The days get longer, and the nightlife is spirited. This s...

Read More

Kickstart your spring with these 5 adventures

Set your sights on brighter days and warmer weather as you kickstart spring with these five Almost Heaven adventures. Whether you're lookin...

Read More

5 Waterfalls to Add to Your Spring Bucket List in West Virginia

Nothing is quite like embarking on a spring adventure in Almost Heaven, and waterfall chasing is certainly a must-do when you're here. All ...

Read More

These Mountain Resorts Make West Virginia Truly Almost Heaven

Experience luxury resort accommodations and amenities paired with naturally beautiful landscapes and solitude when staying in West Virginia...

Read More
More Inspiration