Hawks Nest State Park

Riding in on two wheels It's one of the most beautiful routes have ever been on route 60. As we came in to hawk's Nest we saw that there was emergency vehicles down the road when entering the lodge we learned that the power had been out. And was going to be out for an extended amount of time. Unfortunately we had to make our stay short and we did not get to eat in a restaurant but we did get to see some beautiful views off the back balcony and hung out for a short break. We plan to go back this is quite the beautiful place.

It's a nice view, and has some interesting history to it that you can read on the posted signs (and Google) It has a nice sit-down restaurant. It has a lift that can take you down to boat rides along the river.

Quick walk to some beautiful views. Bring quarters for the binoculars! Lots of picnic tables and a big grassy area for kiddos to run. It's a must see!

Beautiful state park and lodge just north of the national park. The Lodge is very interesting architecturally (mid-century modern design) and well maintained, with nice rooms and a great restaurant. For the best views just go to the lodge and the Hawks Nest Overlook - no need to hike. Trails could use a little work but the routes offer good access to the river. The tram is under construction as of October 2025.

<think> The user wants me to help them write a review about visiting a mirador (which seems to be referring to a viewpoint or overlook) in West Virginia. They've provided some text that expresses their sentiment: "just stopped at the mirador, and it was breathtaking! Such a beautiful experience what West Virginia is known for; those amazing views. This is what you could call A Piece of heaven" Looking at the search results, I can see references to West Virginia being "almost heaven" and information about scenic areas in West Virginia, particularly around the New River Gorge area. The search results mention that West Virginia is known for its beautiful terrain and views. The user wants me to help them write a review, so I should take their basic sentiment and expand it into a more polished, detailed review while maintaining their enthusiasm and core message. I should focus on the scenic beauty and views that West Virginia is known for. This appears to be a creative writing task where I'm helping them craft a review, so I shouldn't need to cite the search results heavily, but I can use the general information about West Virginia's reputation for beautiful scenery. </think> Just stopped at the mirador and I'm absolutely blown away! This experience perfectly captures everything West Virginia is celebrated for - those absolutely stunning, panoramic views that take your breath away. Standing there overlooking the landscape, you truly understand why they call this state "almost heaven." The rolling mountains stretch endlessly into the distance, creating layers of green and blue that seem to go on forever. The natural beauty is simply overwhelming in the best possible way. This viewpoint offers exactly what you hope for when visiting West Virginia - that perfect moment where you're surrounded by pristine wilderness and can truly appreciate the raw, untouched beauty of the Mountain State. The scenery is so spectacular it almost doesn't feel real. If you're looking for those iconic West Virginia vistas that remind you why this place is so special, this mirador delivers in every way. It's one of those stops that makes you pause, breathe deeply, and feel grateful to witness such natural magnificence. This truly is a piece of heaven on earth. Highly recommend taking the time to stop here - the views alone are worth the entire trip. West Virginia's reputation for breathtaking scenery is absolutely well-deserved, and this spot proves it perfectly.

Hawks Nest State Park is hands down one of the most scenic spots in all of West Virginia. These photos don’t even begin to capture how breathtaking the views are in person. Overlooking the New River Gorge, the panoramic lookouts give you a front-row seat to dramatic mountain ridges, winding rivers, and historic bridges, all framed by natural beauty in every direction. The overlook area is easy to access and beautifully designed with stone paths, railings, and coin-operated binoculars, making it perfect for relaxing or snapping photos. You can even spot the Hawks Nest Dam and the iconic railroad bridge from up high, both visible in my visit and photos. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, peaceful getaways, or just want to take in some of the best views in the state, Hawks Nest delivers. It’s also a great place to stop if you’re exploring the New River Gorge region.

Beautiful park! Loved the over look and nice visitor center. Can't wait for the team to be open!

The park is undergoing several renovations- I'm eager to see those completed. The trails were well maintained (if not well labeled), the staff were all super friendly, and bathrooms were clean. Can't wait to go back and explore more! We hiked the Rail to Trail and it had plenty of off trail exploring. Such a great spot to explore just an hour outside of Charleston.

Cute spot for some great hikes. The short trails are easy , but the moderate trails require physical fitness ability. My husband and I did about half of the cliffside trail. One of the other more difficult trails was significantly overgrown and a guide warned us of snakes and bees. Great views

Hiked the Cliffside Trail here and it was as good, and as tough, as any trail we did in nearby New River Gorge NP. This trail was carved along the rock side of the mountain. There were technical and sketchy parts of the hike where you need to pay attention for sure footing. Many nice runoffs and waterfalls along the out and back. And we even watch a ruckus of hawks getting into it in the cliffs above us!

Free to enter. Just used the restrooms and walked to the over look. After the drought really didn't expect much. But fall colors were pretty good in late October. Walk was short and easy. The view is lovely but in fall it is majestic. Gps took us to the lodge parking lot but keep going less than a mile down the road.

Not only is the lodge amazing, this is one of the oldest parks in WV! Situated high above the gorge with a view of the Hawk's Nest dam, the river winding in the valley below. There are several trails above, toward, and in the gorge, with an overlook section with a nest castle like bathroom and gift shop. The marina area in the gorge is usually accessible by tram, set to reopen in 2026. You can access it yourself view a hike or bike down the Hawk's Nest Rail Trail, attempt the drive yourself, or book a jet boat tour and travel down via shuttle. Enjoy lunch in the restaurant overlooking the park, take in the CCC rock work architecture, and soak in mountain or forest views at this gem, minutes from the New River Gorge Bridge.

Abagail was lovely and helpful with ideas. Super personable and so kind. If you need any help with questions about the park, she will help you as much as she can.

Today, we took a Sunday drive to Hawk's Nest State Park in Ansted, WV. This was Kayla & Deacon's first time there, but a trip down memory lane for Tony & I. It was fun reminiscing and sharing with them the way things used to be and the ways it looked! It's hard to believe it now so sad how changes with time makes so much of a difference. Deacon enjoyed his adventure. We found out the tram ride over the mountain has been broken 3 yrs and the state has not fixed it. Also found out might not get fixed for another couple years also...which is extremely sad news! Also, there is NO nature exhibit or museum display at Hawk's Nest Park. There is a power boat ride on the river that starts late May but is rather expensive about $30 per person so if your a family of 4 (average size) it's over $120 for about an hour before taxes.. Now a days, that's a little much in my personal opinion! But, if you got it..spend it ! Right!! ? Me, not so much! There is a restaurant and a small gift shop fairly priced..we purchased a few necessaries!! Definitely recommend to all in the area°

I've been here more times than I can count and it never gets old. Every time I go to Bridge Day I make sure to stop here on the way there or on the way back. The views are amazing from the top and from the bottom. Riding the tram is a lot of fun :) The lodge is nice and the food they serve is good. The staff I've encountered over the years are always kind and friendly. There are a lot of attractions nearby so make sure to give yourself time before or after to explore. I can't say enough about this region. It's one of my favorite areas to explore in the US. So many cool places to hike, bike, raft, eat, learn, etc. Check this place out, you won't be disappointed! *I recommend going during the early fall to see the beauty of the leaves changing color.

Passing through and drawn to the impressive and amazing view, I stayed long enough to enjoy the lookout point and a little walking. I arrived after the park had officially closed so the visitor center and gift shop were closed. The walk from the parking area to the lookout is impressive though getting to the lookout does require some steps and I did not spot a ramp. The view over the New River is Amazing and shouldn't be missed. [Review 19610 overall - 84 in West Virginia - 581 of 2023.]

This park is nearby and downriver of the New River Gorge; the aesthetic is not that different with green slopes walling a comparatively tiny river and the occasional train coming by. The location here offers minimal river access. The main visitor center is at the top of a hill and there was some sort of tram there which was apparently meant to get visitors down to the river for a boat ride, but it was not in or close to being in an operational state. Their website stated that a van would bring one down the windy road to a boat which is still operating on weekends. Some small (but taxing) trails through the trees lead to overlooks, with one near the visitor center and another just downriver with a view of a large dam. The views are impressive, and the site may be less crowded than the national park. My GPS thought taking mountainous side roads from the national park to the state park was a good idea, but the roads were a little dicey. Conversely, if one is driving on Midland Trail (an immensely scenic route by the river that goes to Charleston), this park is a quick detour. There were a variety of picnic and resort facilities as well. For hiking, it didn't seem to offer much compared to the national park, but it certainly is a worthwhile park in its own right.

2009 My new bride and I wanted to get a room up in the mountains of WV. A conference was going on at the same time but it wasn't ours. We just wanted a room for a week long honeymoon. Manager wanted to charge us for a conference we were not involved with at all. Then she the manager wanted to know what kind of scam or stunt I was trying to pull.. We went somewhere else. I suggest the same

Awesome park about an hour from Charleston. The park is sort of divided in 2 sections. One section is the lodge, restaurant, gift shop and playground. You can hike from here down to the river. The lodge is very nice and quiet. Pool looked really nice. Newer playground for kids and plenty of parking. The lodge has a restaurant with a beautiful view. You also buy the tickets to ride the jet boat here. The other section of the park has a few hiking trails, picnic area, gift shop and short walk to an overlook of the gorge area. We went on a holiday weekend and there was very few people. It was an enjoyable place with nice hiking paths.

You will have to hike the Hawks Nest Trail Hike. 2 miles down to the river (4 mile round trip ...easy hike) past waterfalls and rapids, leading you down to even bigger and more grandiose falls. This is a must hike when visiting New River Gorge National Park. There is even an abandoned coal mine at the end by the river. Just a beautiful hike to be cherished.

During a scenic loop drive from Fayetteville to Gauley Bridge to Ansted, my two sons (15 yrs, 13 yrs) and I stopped by the overlook at Hawks Nest State Park in June 2021. Based on the amazing view here (which is easy to access), I would strongly recommend parking the car and taking a short walk for an outstanding view of the river below. We saw a freight train of about 80 coal cars passing along the tracks on the opposite side of the river. It was impressive to see such a long train from a bird's eye perspective. The overlook is on US Route 60 about a mile or so west from the main facility of the park (which has the tram and access to the river jet boats). It was early evening (6:30pm), so the main park was closed. But the overlook is open for pictures. Although this location is too far north (and on a curve in the river) to see the US-19 New River Gorge bridge in the distance, it has an impressive view of the New river as it bends to the west before joining the Gauley River to become the Kanawha River. We did not have time to try any of the hikes in this park. But I would say if you are pressed for time on your vacation, it's well worth the 5-10 minutes to park the car, walk briefly to the viewpoint, and admire the scenery below!

We came to Fayetteville for a family get together. We made a quick stop here after a day of hiking in the area. We were already pretty tired and hungry by the time we made it here, so we just took a quick stroll and enjoyed the views. There's a very short loop and in the middle of it, there's some pretty good views of the dam, the mountains, and the railroad tracks. I'm not sure what else this park has to offer, but I think it's at least worth stopping by to enjoy the view.

I visited Hawks Nest in the fall of 2019 and absolutely loved it. While my fiancé was getting ready to be a bridesmaid in her friend's wedding, I did my best to stay out of the way and behind the scenes by getting up early in the morning to go here and over to Babcock State Park. It was so beautiful here and so relaxing!

Lovely area to visit, though I chose a poor time to do so. Upon arrival at the tram visitor center there was a sign stating that the river had been lowered by 25' due to maintenance on the hydroelectric dam up river. Viewing the river front you could tell it was just a big mud bog. Since I hiked below last time I decided I would just plan on coming back next year. Also the Lodge is closed from Nov 2020-June 2021 for a face lift. Lots of great activities in the area, I do recommend you visit the Lodge area in nice weather...or at least stop at the overlook.

Enjoyed the views. The trails are fun. Saw only one hawk, but could be because of the weather. The tram is worth it. Takes you to a nice area and a trail that some may not get to see. There's a gift shop and tiny museum room. Liked the dock walk and the train tracks, though may be closed at any given point. It's worth it. The lodge is amazing. Didn't stay there, but it seems so cozy.

Pretty state park with a nice overlook. Didn't stay long due to rainy weather on the day of our visit.

Beautiful Stop in Autumn This was my second or third stop here over the past three or four years and it's beautiful. I've tried to come up during fall color to the area to take photographs and this is one of those stops that does not disappoint. From the information signs, it's got a long history going back to when this was still part of Virginia. While part of a greater project to create hydroelectric power, I would guess that this part was probably originally a Civilian Conservation Corp Project much like the Skyline Drive / Blue Ridge Parkway. My father was part of the CCC for a couple of years and it gave employment and skills to a number of folks in Appalachia and left us with some beautiful structures and attractions to this day. You pull into the lot and park. Not normally crowded since the roads are not the ones that commercial traffic use these days and are mostly confined to local traffic and those individuals who want to enjoy natural beauty. First thing that hits you is the Old English structures across the road from the parking lot and this is part of the Park HQ along with a nice gift shop and snack bar. In the parking lot is a information sign tracing history back to John Marshall and the year 1812 when this was part of Virginia. From here you have a choice of two trails but it actually a loop and hence really on one. It's an easy trail and even people like me who had a back problem at the time, had no problem navigating the trial. Both lead to the Hawk Nest which is a large natural monolith towering over the New River Gorge . At the nest, you have to walk down to the observatory on top of the monolith which presents a panoramic view. To your left which is upriver is the New River confined in a lake to produce electricity. To the left is a view of the dam. Both are beautiful all of the year but particularly so at the height of the autumn color. What I liked was the stone work leading down from the path to the observatory. Great attention to detail, a lot of intricate detailed stone work and some whimsical touches such as the drinking fountain. Not functional now probably because of current health standards but still a nice touch particularly with the stepping stone for little ones. From here, I walked back to the parking lot by going up the some steps and turning left. Along the gentle walk was another information plaque commemorating those who died in a tunnel disaster in the 1930's when they were trying to cut a tunnel through Gauley Mountain to covey water from the dam to the hydro station. Sad loss of live. Not something that jumps out at you but go ahead and take the time to explore. You'll be surprised.

The perfect time of the year to visit Hawks Nest State Park is in the fall when the trees are in color. The views are lovely any time of the year but really overwhelmingly beautiful when the trees are in color. Its great park, really fun for kids and hikers with its well-kept trails and paths. It also has good amenities with its park office in a classic old English style stone building along with a gift shop and snack bar. At first I thought it would be jammed with tourists but it wasn't. That is because it isn't located on what are now the most traveled of roads. So, chances are you are going to be able to have a no hassle of a time.

Great visit to this quiet State Park. We did the Rail trail which isn't part of the park officially because the town of Ansted & volunteers maintain it. However, you can get directions to it at the gift shop and it's listed on the park's trail map. Note tram ride is closed for renovation currently BUT the jet boat ride was great!!

I thought Hawk's Nest State Park was a great place for a quick visit. They have some trails which lead to decent overviews of the river below. Some of the most easily accessible paved trails are right off the side of the road. They also have some picnic tables and shelter areas to enjoy. Overall I enjoyed my quick visit!

Now we didn't stay here only stopped here but the information they gave FOR staying here, about the park and the gift shop was awesome! They let us overlook the park and walk around, we are planning on coming back next year! Truly warm and inviting staff!

Beautiful place to visit. Gorgeous overlook to see the gorge and take pictures from. The lovers leap trail over look is a tough and rough walk. Steps aren pretty much non existent. Parts of the trail is just straight angle upward and downward depending if you are going down or up the trail. Make sure you wear some good shoes to handle the toughness of this walk. And in case anyone hasn't said anything in previous reviews there is a hidden gem called the hawks nest tunnel disaster. It's north of the this overlook by .25 miles. It gives you another view of hawks nest. And it gives view of the dam as well. It's worth the walking and the time to visit this place. It was amazing in short!

Nice looking park in a beautiful location. This review is for the restaurant. The service was slow but friendly. The pinto beans were super. The cornbread not so much unless you like sweet flour cornbread. I don't. The steak and cheese was great. The fries and onion rings, ok. The view though makes up for the short comings. Beautiful view. Saw several Hawks soaring in the skies while there. Cool indeed.

March 8 photos below. More beautiful in rafting season fall leaves or spring summer when very green! Hawks Nest State Park is between Gauley Bridge, Oak Hill and Fayetteville on scenic HWY 60. The road is described from Gauley Bridge (beautiful area) uphill to Hawks Nest as two lane paved narrow and winding. Steep sharp curves enjoyed by motorcycles, and exotic cars. Motorhomes all sizes can travel. Great food at Chimney Corner outdoor seating, enclosed area also with live music. Chimney corner is right by a 180 degree turn. It is nicely tucked in at a sharp curve corner across from a gift shop. At Chimney corner go up a few miles to Hawks Nest State Park. Definitely worth the visit and view. (Two view areas in this State Park) this is the most beautiful of the two. The other is by the lodge and zip line. African American history Hawks Nest Tunnel Disaster. This shows the abuses back in the industrial history of West Virginia. Southern European immigrants from Italy and other regions also perished as they were hired to be be stone masons just like their skill set in Europe. Comparing the Charleston WV to Hawks Nest is from flat large Kanawha River valley with wide flowing river, as you go upstream towards Gauley Bridge the river becomes faster moving and shallow with many rocks. At the conflux of the Gauley and New Rivers in Gauley Bridge, there are Civil War train bridges and the nearby huge expanse of the Kanawha Falls. Historic Glen Ferris Inn where La Fayette once resided. Back to Hawks Nest State Park. From Kanawha Falls to the State Park is one of my favorite drives in the entire United States. Happy to see the New River Gorge National Park designation.

We spent the afternoon here, exploring the trails and riding the tram down to the river. The area is absolutely gorgeous and should not be missed if in the area!

It's a nice park, the tram was fun but not long and the jet boat ride was fun. However, I think it's a little overpriced for the amount of time spent on the team and the boat. $82 for two adults and two children. The view was beautiful.

We stayed at the lodge this weekend and it was awesome. Everyone there is so nice and helpful. Views are obviously amazing. Great area to explore. Restaurant at the lodge was so good and so was the coffee.

Beautiful hikes. Beautiful views. Main overlook is accessible by anyone with the paved walkway

Absolutely Wonderful Views! A picture can't really capture the beauty. A great place too picnic. I'm surprised there weren't many people here on a Friday.

How nice. We walked in and I saw a waitress sitting down picking her nose. She didn't move after she saw us and then on the way out she asked if we wanted something. Um....yeah....but not your boogers. DISGUSTING.

This is one of those situations where you have to take your location into consideration when judging a place like this. After passing a number of sub-par lodges, campsites, and motels, this place looks positively luxurious! The view is quite amazing, especially if you walk down to the "lover's leap". Taking a ride on that ski lift down to the river would have been awesome if it was operating. And if there was time, I would have tried to get on a boat down the river. The food at the restaurant is about what you'd expect, especially when you realize that the meatloaf is your best bet. We were told that we could BYOB since they did not have their liquor license. (Be sure to pick up some on your way, there is nowhere nearby to grab it if you run out!) The lodgings are cozy and the air conditioning worked. Nothing stood out about it, but I wasn't offended by it either - except that there were bottles of half used shampoo. On the plus side, they had cable so we could watch the World Cup game and sort of working internet (that was free). We topped off the visit with a free breakfast, that was lackluster, with the highlight being hot tasteless coffee. I'd probably stay here given the right circumstances again, but if I had a bit more time and freedom, I'd have found a bit better lodgings (means I would have had to drive a bit further away and paid a bit more).

The servers were nice, and the food was not too bad. The view of the gorge is awesome.

Its got a great view, nice place to stop by on a roadtrip or hike, the drive is also quite nice with othwr random attractions along the way

Awesome place to sleep over n the view of the mountains is beautiful a must see.

We stayed in the lodge and ate several meals at the restaurant. The food was well prepared, fresh and tasty. Servers were friendly, prompt and attentive. The manager was friendly and knowledgeable about local history and attractions. We would definitely come back.

If it weren't for the view there would be nothing to bring us back. The view is spectacular from certain rooms. You will need to make sure you ask for that. We were in rooms 215 and 216. There are small patios off each room with 2 chairs and a little table. The chairs for room 216 were busted. We asked to have them replaced soon after we checked in. We stayed 2 nights. They were not replaced and no explanation was given until we checked out. Our rooms were clean.

My husband and I had dinner here after a day of hiking. We were hungry and choose Hawks Nest Restaurant on a whim. Best choice ever! My husband ordered the white fish served with the pineapple salsa and it was delicious. I ordered the chicken breast, perfect choice. It was tender and juicy and it had a great taste. The service was helpful, friendly and timely. I'll definitely return.

Amazing views, lovely gift shop, fantastic food...man. Could it get any better?

Service is terrible they are so slow. Servers just walk by you with out saying anything to you while you are waiting for a seat. Ordered a grilled cheese and the cheese wasn't even melted. Stay away!

Room very basic and a bit dated,but clean. The view on the gorge side is super, the real attraction of this lodge. Unfortunately the tram to the river was on the fritz, but the grounds around the lodge more than compensated. The staff were competent and friendly at both the front desk and the restaurant.