Scenic Wonders of Hawks Nest State Park
Adventure Destination

Scenic Wonders of Hawks Nest State Park

Explore Hawks Nest State Park for stunning New River Gorge views near Ansted, WV. Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and panoramic overlooks. Best visited in fall for colorful foliage. Perfect for families and adventure seekers.

Hiking8.5/10Moderate
Photo Gallery

Category

Hiking

Typical Duration

2-4 hours

Difficulty

Moderate

About This Adventure Destination

Located in the stunning New River Gorge region near Ansted, WV, Hawks Nest State Park offers breathtaking views and vibrant natural beauty. This unique destination is renowned for its deep, forested canyons and offers spectacular vistas from its scenic overlooks. Visitors can marvel at the lush greenery of West Virginia's rolling hills as the New River winds below. A standout feature is the Hawks Nest Overlook, providing panoramic views that are particularly captivating in the autumn months when foliage bursts into vibrant colors.

The park was named after the area’s history of being a hunting ground for hawks and other birds of prey. It covers more than 270 acres and invites visitors with its variety of outdoor activities. Whether you are interested in hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying a picnic with an incredible view, Hawks Nest State Park provides a little something for everyone. Additionally, the Hawks Nest Museum offers historical insights about the area's rich cultural past.

An unmissable feature is the aerial tramway, which transports visitors down to the river, offering a unique perspective of the gorge. The tramway highlights the park's geological diversity with rocks dating back millions of years. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, Hawks Nest State Park is a must-visit destination in West Virginia.

Editorial Assessment

Hawks Nest State Park offers stunning views and engaging activities, making it a popular but not globally iconic destination.

Scenic Wonders of Hawks Nest State Park

Adventure Guide to Scenic Wonders of Hawks Nest State Park

1

Experience Scenic Wonders of Hawks Nest State Park

  • Special Features:

    Explore Hawks Nest State Park for stunning New River Gorge views near Ansted, WV. Enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and panoramic overlooks. Best visited in fall for colorful foliage. Perfect for families and adventure seekers.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Best time to visit is during Fall. Bring adequate water, appropriate outdoor gear, and camera.

  • Directions:

    49 Hawks Nest Rd, Ansted, WV 25812, USA

2

Exploring Near Ansted, West Virginia

  • Local Insights:

    Offers direct access to top trails, protected natural reserves, and picturesque viewpoints across Ansted, West Virginia.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Check local regulations, trail conditions, and weather before heading out.

3

Photography and Wildlife

  • Special Highlights:

    Watch for native wildlife including Hawks, Deer.

  • Visitor Tips:

    Arrive in early morning or late afternoon for the softest lighting and quieter trails.

Reviews

J
Julie Jamesin the last week

Beautiful park with great views

G
Greg Arasonin the last week

Two waterfalls and enjoyed my boat ride!

C
Chris Rayin the last week

Beautiful

A
Andrew Sandsin the last week

Absolutely beautiful state park. So well maintained and taken care of. Miles and miles and miles of trails to enjoy. Just awesome.

D
DEB BEUTLERin the last week

Great destination! Enjoyed the open trail and peaceful outdoor atmosphere.

Nearby Adventures

Nearby Adventure Destinations

View All Destinations →
Waterfall Wonders: Discover Turkey Creek Falls7.80.45 mi
Turkey Creek Falls

Waterfall Wonders: Discover Turkey Creek Falls

Explore Turkey Creek Falls in Ansted, WV. This tranquil spot offers stunning waterfall views and is a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, and picnicking. Enjoy the peaceful settings, especially in spring and summer when nature is in full bloom.

View Details →
Waterfall Wonders at Mill Creek Falls7.50.85 mi
Mill Creek Falls

Waterfall Wonders at Mill Creek Falls

Experience the serene Mill Creek Falls near Millstone, WV. Popular for hiking and bird watching, this picturesque waterfall offers a peaceful retreat. Best visited in spring and fall for optimal conditions. Drive-in access with quiet vibes year-round. Not accessible.

View Details →
Rock Climbing at Bubba City in New River Gorge7.82.80 mi
768-1206 Co Rte 60/5

Rock Climbing at Bubba City in New River Gorge

Experience rock climbing at Bubba City in New River Gorge, near Fayetteville, WV. Accessible via US Route 19, this area offers diverse climbing routes on sandstone cliffs. Best climbed in spring and fall, it provides an adventurous escape in a serene setting.

View Details →
Nearby Adventures

Bookable Experiences

26 Miles of Mild-to-Wild: An Overnight New River Float-Fishing Out of Lansing4.32 mi
Lansing, West Virginia

26 Miles of Mild-to-Wild: An Overnight New River Float-Fishing Out of Lansing

A two-day, 26-mile overnight float-fishing trip near Lansing that averages about six hours on the water each day — this guide lays out what to expect and how to prepare.

4.32 miView Trips & Details →
Two Days, 26 Miles: From Easy Glides to Full-Throttle New River Whitewater4.32 mi
Lansing, West Virginia

Two Days, 26 Miles: From Easy Glides to Full-Throttle New River Whitewater

A two-day, 26-mile overnight run on the New River that pairs a relaxed upper-day with a second day of Class 3–5 whitewater—this guide explains what to expect and how to plan.

4.32 miView Trips & Details →
Riverside Cottage at Thurmond: A Quiet Riverfront Retreat on the New River4.32 mi
Lansing, West Virginia

Riverside Cottage at Thurmond: A Quiet Riverfront Retreat on the New River

A concise, one-bedroom primitive lodging on the New River in historic Thurmond—this guide lays out what to expect, where it sits, and the essential logistics for a short stay.

4.32 miView Trips & Details →
A Marathon of Rapids: 26 Miles Down the Gauley, Including the Drop Over Sweets Falls6.47 mi
Hico, West Virginia

A Marathon of Rapids: 26 Miles Down the Gauley, Including the Drop Over Sweets Falls

An all-day, 9-hour raft trip tackling Class III–V whitewater on the Gauley River with a catered lunch and extended Lower Gauley section—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

6.47 miView Trips & Details →
Family Float on the Upper New: Six Hours of Gentle Rapids, Riverside Lunch, and National‑Forest Vistas6.47 mi
Hico, West Virginia

Family Float on the Upper New: Six Hours of Gentle Rapids, Riverside Lunch, and National‑Forest Vistas

A 6-hour guided day trip on the Upper New River for ages 5 and up, featuring Class I–II rapids, private rafts with an experienced guide, and a catered riverside lunch.

6.47 miView Trips & Details →
Afternoon Rush on the Lower New: Class III/IV Rafting Beneath the New River Gorge Bridge6.47 mi
Hico, West Virginia

Afternoon Rush on the Lower New: Class III/IV Rafting Beneath the New River Gorge Bridge

A four-hour afternoon express rafting trip on the New River Gorge with guided Class III/IV whitewater and scenic passage ending beneath the iconic New River Gorge Bridge.

6.47 miView Trips & Details →