Fiery Furnace | Moab

Sandstone Falls is a series of cascades located on the New River in Hinton, West Virginia.

Visual Characteristics

The falls consist of multiple drops over a width of approximately 1,500 feet. The primary rock formation is sandstone, giving the water a brown hue due to sediment. The average drop height is around 20 feet, with the widest section featuring a broad, shallow cascade.

Location & Access Logistics

Sandstone Falls is situated approximately 10 miles south of Hinton, West Virginia, along U.S. Route 19. Access is via a paved road leading to a dedicated parking area. Public transport is not available to the falls. The main viewing area is accessible via a short, paved walkway from the parking lot.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The falls are a natural geological formation, carved by the erosive power of the New River over millennia. The river flows through the Appalachian Mountains, and the sandstone bedrock is characteristic of the region's geological history.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the cascades from the designated viewing platforms. Photography of the river and rock formations. Fishing is permitted in designated areas downstream from the falls. Hiking trails are available in the surrounding New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the parking area. Limited shade is present near the viewing platforms. Cell phone signal is intermittent. No food vendors are located directly at the falls; visitors should bring supplies.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting conditions. The best months for visiting are typically April through October, avoiding winter ice. Water flow is generally highest in spring due to snowmelt and rainfall.

Facts & Legends

The New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America, predating the Appalachian Mountains themselves. Local lore suggests that the deep pools at the base of the falls were once used by indigenous peoples for spiritual cleansing.

Nearby Landmarks

• Cunard Ghost Town (12km Northwest)
• Thurmond Ghost Town (15km Northwest)
• Grandview State Park (25km Southwest)
• Pipestem Resort State Park (30km Southwest)