Why Hawks Nest is the perfect place for a trip to the New River Gorge
Location, views and outdoor recreation make Hawks Nest a popular destination.
The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve is an expansive 53-mile area of thrilling whitewater rapids, challenging crags and scenic hiking trails. With more than 1 million visitors every year, the New River Gorge is known for having some of the best outdoor recreation in West Virginia. Heck, you’d be hard pressed to find a better place for outdoor adventures anywhere in the United States.
So, where do you begin? The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has a lot of area to cover and you’ll need a place to stay during your trip. There are dozens of places to stay, but none are quite like Hawks Nest State Park. This park’s awe-inspiring views of the New River Gorge makes it a destination in and of itself. But that’s not the only reason why you should stay. Here’s a few reasons why Hawks Nest is the perfect place for a New River Gorge trip.
A great location close to everything
Located only 10 miles from the New River Gorge Bridge, Hawks Nest isn’t far from all the action, yet it’s far enough away that you can retreat back to your room for a peaceful evening of rest and relaxation.
By being that close to the New River Gorge, you’ll have easy access to some of the best whitewater rapids, rock climbing and plenty of scenic hiking trails. Guided bridge walks, airplane rides, horseback riding and bicycle rentals are also available nearby. The possibilities are endless.
Awe-inspiring views that “can’t be missed.”
The New River Gorge Bridge in Fayetteville has iconic views people all over the world come to West Virginia to see. But you know what has awe-inspiring views that rival it? You guessed it. Hawks Nest’s location downstream from the bridge means it has scenic views that are just as good but with half the crowds.
We recommend taking in a sunrise from the park’s main overlook. For something more intimate, watch the sunset from your lodge room’s private balcony or take a short hike down to the more secluded lover’s leap for a bird’s eye view of the river below. There’s also eight miles of hiking trails you can explore for more mountain views.
“We got to the overlook at Hawk’s Nest around noon on a rainy West Virginia day. The hills were shrouded in some of the most picturesque fog you can ever imagine. The whole scene was just a postcard. I proclaimed at that very spot that it was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen in the eastern part of the country.”
— Stijn-traveler, Trip Advisor Reviewer from Waregem, Belgium
Unique outdoor recreation
There’s plenty to do in the New River Gorge, but you’ll want to make time for adventuring at Hawks Nest. The No. 1 attraction at the park is definitely the aerial tramway. This scenic lift takes you from the top of the New River Gorge canyon at the lodge to a marina at the bottom.
The adventure doesn’t stop there though. From the marina, catch a ride on a jet boat out to see the New River Gorge Bridge from the river below. When you come back, you’ll have an experience you won’t forget anytime soon.
Ready for your New River Gorge adventures at Hawks Nest? Here’s what you need to do:
- Plan a trip
There are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy.
- Book your stay
You’ll always be welcome at Hawks Nest.
- Make memories that last a lifetime
Bring your family and enjoy a trip you’ll never forget.
