Hawks Nest: West Virginia Hiking with Kids and Dogs

Hawks Nest is a 270 Acre State Park with GORGE-ous views.

Flow 10 miles North on the New River Gorge for a different experience.

Why is it called Hawks Nest?

The Native American trail that leads to numerous osprey.

9 FUN Things to do near New River Gorge

Hawk to it!

Planning the Adventure

This was part of the Coalfields Waterfalls Loop. The very first stop!

“Have we been here before?”

“I feel like we have…

I’ve definitely heard of it.”

“But, I’m not sure”

Like most typical West Virginia folks; we have two choices for vacations. It’s either Myrtle Beach, SC or Pigeon Forge, TN. Our last time visiting Myrtle Beach, we detoured I-77 and took Route 20 instead.

We’ve visited Babcock State Park a few times. Hawks Nest is on the other side of New River Gorge. Just up the river, 10 miles Northwest.

After thought and deliberation: this is/would be our very first trip to Hawks Nest.

Why is it called Hawks Nest?

Before North America was discovered by early explorers; this land was ~~inhabited~~ loved by Natives. Present Day: The State of West Virginia has many place names and landmarks tracing back to Indigenous Indian heritage. Such as; Pipestem, Seneca Rocks, Kanawha, Potomac, Monongalia.

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Seneca Rocks, WV

Native Trails – Indigenous Appalachia

Before the boom of Coal and Railroads; the industrialization of America..

The area of Hawks Nest was a peaceful nesting ground for osprey.

Arriving the Destination

Driving toward Ansted; home of Mystery Hole. We made a fork off the road into a long gravel ~~path~~ road. Right near the River, Hawks Nest Road follows Mill Creek into the New River.

Mill Creek Falls at Hawks Nest

GSYP Canyon Trail

From Hawks Nest Road; look to the left. And way, way up the hill is Hawks Nest Lodge. The GSYP Canyon Trail was named for the summer maintenance crew that dug this trail. The trail from the river to lodge begins at a gentle grassy knoll. Begin a steady incline, up the rail ties and “slippy spots“.

As we got closer, we saw a giant rock formation. The lodge was getting closer and closer. We arrived to find a playground, basketball court, and the lodge!

Hawks Nest Lodge

After making the 500 ft ascension to the top; we were all pretty dang thirsty. The lodge has a chilled spring water fountain right in the lobby!

A Thirst for Views

After quenching our thirst. We explored the inside of the beautiful lodge. Then we were eager to get back outside for the view.

A mere ten seconds went by;

“A Hawk!”

**Actually, I think it’s a Turkey Vulture**
*(aka “buzzard”*)

Lovers Leap Trail

The views at Hawks Nest are mesmerizing! The front view is wide. There are so many focal points. I just wanted to see it all.

Nestled on a cliff; just a short jaunt for down from the lodge. The view from Lovers Leap trail is worth the few extra steps.

Construction Junction

What’s your function?

They’re currently doing renovation work to the aerial tram. I’d love to come back to Hawks Nest and stay a weekend. They’ve got some cool stuff here!