Last updated: December 14, 2021
Thing to Do
Trail run at Endless Wall
NPS/Sheila Malone
Endless Wall is a delightful trail. Hikers are drawn to this amazing location for the views that look down in the gorge from the cliff edge and for the rich forest. The trail is listed as easy to moderate due to the elevation change. The trail is listed as 2.4 miles but in order to make it back to your vehicle, you would have to either cautiously walk along the road or choose the safer option of hiking out to the Diamond Point Overlook and then return to your parking location by retracing the same path.
Trail Running
This a much loved trail at New River Gorge National Park and Preserve so it may not be the best fit for a trail run due to the volume of others on the trail and the narrow trail width to get around other hikers. If you go early in the morning, you may be able to avoid the crowds.
The Endless Wall Trail is an uneven terrain with only a slight change in elevation. There are many tree roots and rocks scattered along the trail, so stay alert if out for a run. The views into the gorge are spectacular and will inspire all outdoor enthusiasts.
Details
Duration
60-120 Minutes
The trail is 2.4 miles from trailhead to trailhead. It is recommended to use the trail as an out-and-back from whichever parking lot you start, which is approximately 1.0 to 1.2 miles out to Diamond Point Overlook.
If you choose to run the entire trail as a one-way, there will be an additional 0.5 mile run/walk along Lansing-Edmond Road. Lansing Edmond Road is narrow and there is not much space to travel safely along the edge of the road, so it is with caution that visitors walk along this roadway.
Activity
Hiking
Hiking
This hike is heavily trafficked and many visitors are drawn to this location. The drawback to this being a popular destination is that the parking is limited so it is recommended that you put this on your list for early in the day. By mid-day the parking lots are full and the volume of vehicles attempting to find parking becomes a bit of a dilemma.
Climbing
Rock climbers frequent this location so we do ask that you help us keep everyone safe by ensuring that no-one throws any objects off the cliff overlooks because there could be rock climbers below. Recently a rock climber was hit by a rock that was thrown from the overlook area and fortunately the climber was not injured.
Running
Trail Running is something we get asked about frequently. The trails throughout the park are a great way to unplug and get some time in nature. It is recommended that you stay on approved trails.
Age(s)
This trail is open to all ages.
Pets Allowed
Yes
Pets are allowed in all areas of the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve as long as they are kept on a leash of 6 feet or less.
Please you pick up after your pet.
Activity Fee
No
Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.
Location
Endless Wall, Nuttall Trailhead
There are two parking areas for the Endless Wall Trail, Fern Creek and Nuttall.
Due to high volume, ensure you park in an approved parking area. Do not park on the road, cars get towed.
The trail is 2.4 miles and is in the shape of a horseshoe. If you connect the two parking lots by walking along the road, it will increase the distance to 3.0 miles, but you will complete your run at the same parking lot in which you started.
Reservations
No
Season
Year Round
The Endless Wall trail provides amazing viewing overlooks into the New River Gorge and is quite lovely all year round.
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Many photographers select this location for sunset photos, but it is an amazing view all year round.
Accessibility Information
The terrain is rugged and has a few uneven steps. There can be obstacles in the trail such as tree roots and or rocks. The elevation change on this trail is noted as easy to moderate.
The Endless Wall Trail is heavily trafficked and there are several narrow widths along the trail so this would not be recommended on a busy visitation day for a trail run.
There are compost toilets at both trailheads.