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Hawk's Nest State Park wilderness guide
State Park · WV

Hawk's Nest State Park

Hawk's Nest State Park in West Virginia offers stunning views of the New River Gorge and opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring rich natural beauty.

State Park2703+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

270

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Hawk's Nest State Park

Hawk's Nest State Park in West Virginia offers stunning views of the New River Gorge and opportunities for hiking, photography, and exploring rich natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Hawk's Nest State Park is located in the heart of West Virginia, offering spectacular views of the New River Gorge, one of the oldest river gorges in the world. This state park covers rough, mountainous terrain rich in hardwood forests and diverse wildlife, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Established in the 1930s, it has since become a beloved destination. History buffs can appreciate the park's background that dates back to the construction of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway and Civilian Conservation Corps involvement. The park features several hiking trails, picnic spots, and the historic Hawk's Nest Overlook, which provides breathtaking views of the gorge and the New River below. Visitors can embark on jet boat rides on the river or explore nearby passages like the Hawk's Nest Rail Trail. The serene park setting offers a peaceful retreat, enhanced by the striking beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Hawk's Nest State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Waterfall Wonders: Kanawha Falls★ 7.0⌖ 1 miKayaking
Kanawha Falls

Waterfall Wonders: Kanawha Falls

Kanawha Falls near Glen Ferris, WV, is a standout spot for kayaking and fishing, offering scenic views in spring. Easily accessible by car, it's a photographer's delight with tranquil surroundings and ample opportunities for picnicking.

Water Wonders at Kanawha Falls★ 4.5⌖ 2 miWaterfall Viewing
Kanawha Falls

Water Wonders at Kanawha Falls

Explore Kanawha Falls in Glen Ferris, WV, just 50 minutes from Charleston. Enjoy scenic waterfall viewing, fishing, and riverside picnicking. Best visited in spring for peak water flow and serene atmosphere. Bring a camera, insect repellent, and a picnic basket for a relaxing day out.

Waterfall ViewingView Details→
Charming Cascades of Cathedral Falls, West Virginia★ 8.5⌖ 2 miLandmark Viewing
Cathedral Falls

Charming Cascades of Cathedral Falls, West Virginia

Visit Cathedral Falls near Gauley Bridge, West Virginia, a beautiful and accessible waterfall. Perfect for photography and picnics. Accessible year-round, but best enjoyed in spring and summer when lush greenery abounds. Easily reachable by car with picturesque scenery.

Landmark ViewingView Details→
Waterfall Wonders: Discover Turkey Creek Falls★ 7.8⌖ 3 miHiking
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.

Scenic Wonders of Hawks Nest State Park★ 8.5⌖ 4 miHiking
Hawks Nest State Park

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.

Waterfall Wonders at Mill Creek Falls★ 7.5⌖ 5 miHiking
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.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Hawk's Nest Overlook✦ Hawk's Nest Rail Trail✦ New River Gorge views✦ Jet boat rides on the New River
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Hawk's Nest State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Hawk's Nest State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Hawk's Nest State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Hawk's Nest State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Hawk's Nest State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Hawk's Nest State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Hawk's Nest State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Glen Ferris
⌖ 1.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Glen Ferris, West Virginia

A historic town located along the New River offering access to scenic river views, rock formations, and proximity to world-class paddling and hiking adventures.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Gauley Bridge
⌖ 2.42 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Gauley Bridge, West Virginia

A gateway to some of the most thrilling whitewater and rugged Appalachian outdoor experiences, blending river adventures with forested trails and scenic overlooks.

Ansted
⌖ 5.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ansted, West Virginia

A scenic Appalachian town with thrilling outdoor pursuits and breathtaking views, offering a gateway to the New River Gorge.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Fayetteville
⌖ 7.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Fayetteville, West Virginia

A vibrant town that serves as a gateway to thrilling outdoor adventures in the New River Gorge.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Lansing
⌖ 7.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Lansing, West Virginia

A rugged haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts, offering dramatic landscapes and endless outdoor activities in the heart of the New River Gorge.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Hico
⌖ 10.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hico, West Virginia

A quiet mountain town offering rugged river adventures and accessible hiking in the Appalachian wilderness of the New River Gorge region.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Hawk's Nest State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.