Island Loop Trail
The Island Loop Trail is the perfect hike for those looking to enjoy a peaceful stroll with a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Plan Around Island Loop Trail
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Island Loop Trail Details
The Island Loop Trail is the perfect hike for those looking to enjoy a peaceful stroll with a mix of natural beauty and historical intrigue. At just 0.5 miles round-trip, this easy trail loops around the largest island below Sandstone Falls, making it ideal for hikers of all levels-whether you're in the mood for a quick nature break or a family-friendly outing. The trail begins and ends on the Sandstone Falls Boardwalk, making it easy to combine this loop with a visit to the famous falls nearby. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of the New River, which flows serenely past the island. While the island today feels like a peaceful natural retreat, it was once a bustling agricultural site. Early settlers farmed and grazed the land, and a grist mill operated here, turning the island into a hub of activity. Over time, the island has transitioned back into a forested landscape, and hikers can observe how nature has reclaimed the land-wildflowers, shrubs, and trees are steadily replacing the fields that once existed here. Along the trail, you'll have the chance to observe this natural succession up close as young trees and vibrant undergrowth reclaim the space once occupied by human hands. The easy terrain and relatively short length make the Island Loop Trail a great way to explore the area's natural history and cultural past.
Difficulty
Open
Distance
0.5 Miles
Estimated time
20 To 30 Minutes
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Island Loop Trail
Compare nearby parks around Island Loop Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Island Loop Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Island Loop Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Sandstone Falls Boardwalk
The Sandstone Falls Boardwalk offers visitors a quick yet memorable way to experience the largest waterfall on the New River.
0.0 mi away
Sandstone Falls
Nestled in the heart of New River Gorge & Preserve, Sandstone Falls is a stunning natural spectacle that serves as the dramatic grand finale of the New River's journey through the gorge.
0.2 mi away
Sandstone Falls
Imagine the New River, one of the oldest rivers on Earth, putting on its grandest show-and you've got Sandstone Falls.
0.5 mi away
Sandstone Falls Overlook
If you're short on time but craving a front-row seat to the beauty of New River Gorge, the Sandstone Falls Overlook is the perfect spot.
1.0 mi away
Gwinn Ridge Trail
If you're up for a bit of a challenge and crave rewarding views, the Gwinn Ridge Trail is the hike for you.
