Hawks Nest State Park Travel Guide

There are alot of picnic tables here, some with and without a shelter. There is a gift shop and a museum. The museum is on top of a mountain with stairs and concrete walkways for a nice hike. Very steep though.

The bathrooms and gift shop is located near the parking and picnic area. Across the street from the facilities is the parking lot and the walk/hiking trail that takes you out to the overlook. It is also paved and level for easy access.

Nestled in the heart of whitewater rafting country, Hawks Nest State Park encompasses 276 acres bordering a rugged section of the New River Gorge National River. Long known for its panoramic views, the park offers a modern, 31 room lodge for the comfort of overnight guests. Suites are available at an additional cost. Below the lodge, the New River forms peaceful Hawks Nest Lake. Above the lake, the narrow canyon and rushing water create one of the most challenging wildwater boating waterways in the nation.

Whether you're searching for an ideal summer vacation, access to exciting whitewater rafting or a quick getaway to view autumn's color, Hawks Nest State Park is a perfect year-round sanctuary.

aerial tram, lodge, overlooks, museum
near Ansted, West Virginia (WV)

The towering rock edifice, for which the park is named, has been visited since prehistoric Native Americans entered Appalachia.

Today a resort lodge, with an aerial tram, perches upon the cliffs. Hikers and anglers visit the park year round. Historians use it as a base from which to explore the national river.

Tram open weekends May - Memorial Day, daily until Labor Day, weekends through Sept., daily through the last weekend in Oct. Weekdays 11 a.m.-6:45 p.m. Closed Mondays except holidays.

304/658-5196 or 1-800-CALL-WVA

I think that's the name of this bridge...it's been awhile since we were there. There's another bridge that people frequently skydive and bungee off of in the park. It's called the New River Valley Bridge. It is the largest of its kind east of the Mississippi River...about 900 feet high. I have a picture somewhere. I'll put it on here soon.

Here's another shot of the New River from a much higher location. We were on the other side of the park in this picture. You should see this place when the foliage turns in autumn. It is absolutely beautiful!

We hiked down to the river's edge for lunch. This area is so peaceful. There wasn't a person to be seen...just nature at its best. There's Gauley Bridge again in the background. We had a swan friend who hung around while we ate.

This area in the park is gorgeous. Here's a shot of the New River in the background. The river runs throughout the whole park.