| Canyon Rim Trail Out-and-Back |
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Description:
This is a relatively easy 3.6 mile
out-and-back at Grandview on the Canyon Rim Trail. Grandview
used to be a State Park but has been made a part of the New
River Gorge National River in recent years. The map used here
still refers to it as a state park. It�s a pretty tame route
with only a couple of short climbs. The downside of this trek is
that it touches Turkey Spur Road several times on its way out to
Turkey Spur Rock but the
added
vistas and
Rhododendron tunnels
are well worth this little annoyance. The views
are grand to say the least. The
Grandview vista offers incredible views, especially south toward
Glade Creek. The North Vista gave a head on
view of the famous
Horseshoe Bend.
The 150
stone and wood steps at Turkey Point are not
too difficult to negotiate. At the top enjoy a panoramic view of
Stretcher�s
Neck Bend
with a railroad tunnel going straight
through the middle of it. Note: for some variety the Castle Rock Trail can be added to the trek but beware. This trail is very rocky with a lot of stone steps and sheer drop-offs. It is not suitable for young children or pets. |
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Look for a kiosk directly across the parking lot from the Visitor Center (Opens at 12:00, Memorial Day to Labor Day.) ________________________________________ |
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Zipped National Geographic TOPO! GPS and Universal GPS Files |
Trail Notes: From the kiosk head down the flagstone paved path to the Grandview vista. After taking in the view reverse direction, pass the junction with the Castle Rock Trail (Se note in the description.) and bear right at the split in the flagstone path. Turn right onto the Canyon Rim Trail.
In 0.27 miles pass a picnic area/playground on the left and small vistas on the right. In another 0.09 miles arrive at a spur trail on the right for the North Vista with its head on view of the famous Horseshoe Bend. In another 0.10 miles pass the northern junction with the Castle Rock Trail on the right.
In another 0.16 miles the trail will begin to parallel Turkey Spur Road, touching it several times. Look for more vistas along this stretch. One is on a short spur trail. Over the next mile there will be a couple of steep but short descents before arriving at the Turkey Spur Rock parking lot. This is where you begin the climb of 150 steps. Take your time. There are three viewing platforms, the last being the best with a panoramic view of Stretcher�s Neck Bend with a railroad tunnel going straight through the middle of it.
After taking in the views retrace your steps back to your car. If you have time to kill there are a few other short loops near the parking area for you to explore. They are all less than a mile and easy to hike. A brochure with maps and info can be picked up in a box outside the Visitor Center.
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