Ride the New River Jet Boats at Hawks Nest State Park
Hawks Nest State Park provides many opportunities to explore the great outdoors. With New River Jet Boats, experiencing the scenic New River Gorge from the comfort of a jet boat is possible. From an open-air six-passenger jet boat to a covered 16-passenger one, there is a boat ride that will get you cruising on the New River.
Jet Boat Ride Quick Facts
Passengers can either choose from the covered, 21-foot-long Waterman (16 passengers) or the G3 (“The Lil Boat”), which is open-air and holds six passengers. From the marina, the boat travels upstream where you will take in spectacular views of the New River Gorge and the New River Gorge Bridge. Tours are led by a U.S. Coast Guard Captain, which last approximately 36 minutes. There are no age restrictions for this tour.
How to Get There
From Adventures on the Gorge in Lansing, a van shuttle will transport you to the marina with the driver sharing local coal mining history. This trip will depart from Adventures on the Gorge, and you will then be shuttled to New River Jet Boats Marina (approximately a 25-minute drive). This is included with the cost of the boat ride ticket.
If you choose to drive, follow your map app to New River Jet Boats, and the route will lead you to the Hawks Nest State Park parking lot. You can drive down to the river, but the gravel road is steep and narrow.
Pricing
- Adult: $39
- Senior: $35
- Youth: $29
- Age 4 and under: $10
*All are plus the $3 regulatory fee and taxes.
Where to Purchase Tickets
Reservations can be made through Adventures on the Gorge online. Walk-ins at Hawks Nest are welcome, but on a first-come, first-served basis only. Tickets can also be purchased in the tram office at Hawks Nest State Park Lodge or at the boat dock (cash or card). Tickets go on sale beginning at 10 a.m. The first trip goes out at 11 a.m. and then approximately every hour that follows.
Operating Hours and Season
New River Jet Boats is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; with the last ride at 6 p.m. Rain or shine, New River Jet Boats only cancels tours if there is lightning.
