History of Hawks NestMake Hawks Nest State Park part of your personalized Ansted itinerary using our Ansted online trip itinerary builder.
The name of this area comes from the osprey ("fish hawks") that once nested on the cliffs. Today, many hawks, turkey vultures, and black vultures are seen soaring above the canyon.
Hawks Nest Dam
The Hawks Nest Dam that can be seen below the Hawks Nest Overlook dates back to the 1930s. This dam was built to provide water for a hydroelectric plant in Alloy. The tunnel averages 30ft. in diameter, travels a distance of 3 miles through Gauley Mountain. Steel grating on the right side of the dam is the entrance. The dam is not park property and is off-limits to the public.
Source
Create a full itinerary - for free!
Hawks Nest State Park reviews
-
Loved the Tram ride a lot of awesome things to do and see for everyone of all ages. Enjoyed our visit and would love to go back.
Loved the Tram ride a lot of awesome things to do and see for everyone of all ages. Enjoyed our visit and would love to go back. more »
-
The Overlook was stunning only a short walk from the parking lot easily accessible but their are stairs leading down to the overlook very level path
The Overlook was stunning only a short walk from the parking lot easily accessible but their are stairs leading down to the overlook very level path more »
-
This area of Hawks nest as along my way home so I gave in to impulse and stopped to check out the scenic outlook and do a small little hike before the long drive home. Nice view of the gorge. The butterflies were out and about all over. At the overlook which was pretty and quiet during the morning hours. Crossed the street to do the mile loop through the park. Nothing to spectacular but a nice stroll through the woods. What was great was the park itself. I’m a little jealous as this would be great for a work picnic and if it had an actual play structure it would be perfect for a family reunion or party. They have bathrooms located in what looks like a castle tower. A huge covered picnic shelter with an outdoor fireplace. All in all it was just a cool picnic area though I was most impressed with the bathrooms. The tower was cool looking and it was a little nippy outside but the bathrooms were warm and cozy which I think was do to the stone.
-
I've visited this park tons over the years on school trips and with family, but it never ceases to amaze me with how beautiful it is. This was my first time visiting The Lodge and seeing the views from there. There are playgrounds, jet boat tours, tram rides and a nice gift shop. Just an hour from Charleston. Definitely a great way to spend an afternoon out and about in West Virginia.
Plan your trip to Ansted
Get a personalized tripA full day by day itinerary based on your preferences Customize itRefine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules Manage itEverything in one place. Everyone on the same page.Know more
Popular things to do in Ansted
Trips in Hawks Nest State Park by other users
5 days in Summersville
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Summersville Lake
Carnifex Ferry Battlefield State Park
Battle Run Beach
7 days in Charleston, Indianapolis & Saint Louis
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Charleston
Indianapolis
Saint Louis
4 days in Jackson & West Virginia
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Jackson
Fayetteville
Weston
2 days in Charleston
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Capitol Street
West Virginia State Capitol
West Virginia State Museum
8 days in West Virginia
BY A USER FROM UNITED STATES
Charleston
Fayetteville
Weston
42 days in West Virginia
BY A USER FROM UNITED KINGDOM
Harpers Ferry
Davis
Snowshoe