Kanawha Falls River Overlook
Explore/West Virginia/Kanawha Falls River Overlook

Kanawha Falls River Overlook

Gauley Bridge / Fayette County, West Virginia

Activity

Walking / Broad River Falls

Distance

0.3 mi round trip

Route

Out & back

The adventure

The Kanawha River breaks into a long frothing shelf of water where a wide natural ledge interrupts its flow. Instead of a towering plunge, the falls create a sweeping river panorama framed by forested Appalachian hills.

A quick scenic stop rewards anyone traveling the Midland Trail with the sound of powerful water and a striking view of the valley. River levels change the texture and width of the cascade throughout the year.

ONCE YOU’RE THERE

Use the public roadside overlook and walk only where pedestrian access is clearly permitted, then return to the same parking location.

LOCAL INTEL

This is a short scenic river stop, not a designated long hiking trail.

TRAIL CONDITIONS & SAFETY

Traffic is close by and water is swift; do not cross tracks, climb barriers, or enter the river.

FEES & ACCESS

No general trail admission fee is known; verify parking and activity charges.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Year-round; best viewed in daylight.

What to expect

  • Walking
  • Gauley Bridge
  • This is a short scenic river stop, not a designated long hiking trail.

Good to know

Getting there
Navigate to the named Kanawha Falls roadside viewing area on US Route 60. Use only a legal public pull-off or signed parking; view from safe roadside positions rather than crossing rail lines or entering restricted dam facilities.
Local intel
This is a short scenic river stop, not a designated long hiking trail.
Safety
Traffic is close by and water is swift; do not cross tracks, climb barriers, or enter the river.
Fee
Free — no required entrance or parking fee.
Dogs
unknown.
Season
Year-round; best viewed in daylight

Photos

Kanawha Falls River Overlook
Photo: Wikimedia Commons contributor · See Commons file page · Source

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