New River Gorge Grand View Rim Trail is a premier hiking destination in Fayette County, West Virginia, covering 3.0 miles with 600ft of elevation gain. Stats: 3.0 miles, 600ft gain, Moderate. Type: Loop. Surface: Dirt. Time: 1-2 hours. Fee: Free. Dogs: Yes. Permit: No. Wildlife: white-tailed deer, black bears, wild turkeys, bald eagles, peregrine falcons. Best seasons: Fall for spectacular gorge foliage; spring for wildflowers; accessible year-round. New River Gorge National Park's Grand View rim trail follows a sandstone cliff 1,400 feet above the New River — some of the most breathtaking views in the entire National Park System. Pack plenty of water and layers. Mountain weather in the southern Appalachians can change rapidly — always check the forecast. Leave No Trace: stay on trail, pack out all waste, respect wildlife.