Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Castle Rock Trail
Hiking
5.0
(11)
This Highlight goes through a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
June 19, 2022
Hiking
Castle Rock Trail and Grandview Rim Trail can make a great loop of about 1.6 km (almost 1 mile)
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Castle Rock Trail
4.9
(7)
99
hikers
5.58km
01:36
130m
140m
The Castle Rock and Grandview Rim Trail Loop offers a fantastic blend of rugged geology and expansive vistas within New River Gorge National Park. You'll navigate the challenging Castle Rock Trail, which features rocky sections, uneven footing, and close-up views of massive cliffs and exposed coal seams. The route then transitions to the smoother Grandview Rim Trail, rewarding you with panoramic overlooks of the New River Gorge, including the iconic horseshoe bend from the Grandview Main Overlook. This 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hike, with 436 feet (133 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and typically takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes to complete, making it a great choice for a rewarding, shorter outing.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, with parking available at the Grandview area. However, it's wise to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as the lot can fill up quickly. The Castle Rock section can be quite rugged and potentially slippery when wet, so good footwear is a must. Late spring is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the rhododendrons and mountain laurel add vibrant color to the landscape.
What makes this loop truly stand out among other trails in the region is its unique combination of intimate geological exploration and grand scenic views. You get to experience the gorge from two distinct perspectives: walking directly at the base of towering rock formations and then gazing out over the vast expanse from above. This trail effectively showcases the "grand views" that give the area its name, offering a memorable insight into the natural features and dramatic landscape of the New River Gorge.
4.3
(3)
26
hikers
1.96km
00:36
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4
hikers
3.27km
01:04
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Distance 756 m
Uphill 120 m
Downhill 110 m
Weather
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Wednesday 17 June
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13 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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