Hawks Nest State Park Overlook
Another wonderful state park near our lodge is Hawks Nest State Park, in Ansted. We go there often to hike the trails, take in the view from the overlooks, and ride the tram down to the river. Hawks Nest doesn’t have as many hiking trails as Babcock, but the views are well worth the time. My favorite trail is the Cliffside Trail, a 2 mile trail that follows the canyon side cliffs. It offers an up close look at the geology and forest ecosystem of the New River.
If you have more time, the Hawks Nest Rail Trail is an easy and enjoyable hike from the town of Ansted down to the river using the old rail bed. The gravel trail features 2 trestles and many waterfalls. You can hike down and then back up, or drop a car off at the river for the return trip. Either way, these are 2 can’t miss hiking trails at Hawks Nest State Park.
