
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

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