Hawks Nest puts history on display
By Steve Keenan , The Register-Herald
Hawks Nest State Park adjoins National Park Service territory . It encompasses 270 acres and features numerous amenities , including a 31-room guest lodge with newly remodeled rooms , a restaurant , an events and conference center , several overlooks and other offerings .
The original lower park area features picnic tables and the original Civilian Conservation Corps ( CCC ) shelter , which is currently under repair .
The park features three gift shops : one at the main overlook at the bottom , which was the original park ; one at the overlook at the lodge ; and one at the lake .
Exploring the region ’ s flora and fauna is a must for Hawks Nest visitors . Hiking opportunities include a connector trail that will transport individuals almost the entire way to Canyon Rim Visitor Center in Lansing ( 4 miles one way ). That is just one of several trails available for hiking ( not biking ), migratory bird watching and viewing spring wildflowers .
Visitors to the park can also explore area history , such as the story behind the Hawks Nest Tunnel Disaster , in which hundreds lost their lives from silicosis in the 1930s as a tunnel was bored into the sandstone of Gauley Mountain to serve as a conduit to provide hydroelectric power generation .
The old tramway , which transported guests down to the New River and back up to the overlook , was decommissioned , and a new one has been bid out .
In the absence of the tram , participants in the popular New River Jet Boats ( owned by Bobby Bower ), which have operated in the area for decades , are being shuttled down to the lake .
Jet boat trips started the first weekend in May for weekend availability , and the fun expanded to six days a week through October after Memorial Day weekend . For more on the 30- to 45-minute excursion , visit www . newriverjetboats . com .
The Overlook at the New River Gorge is fully operational and fully functional . The restaurant is open seven days a week from 7 a . m . to 8 p . m . Call 304-658-3639 . Contact — For more , call 1-304-658-5212 or visit http :// www . hawksnestsp . com
Take a look . The scenic overlook at Hawks Nest State Park in Fayette County provides a bird ’ s eye view of the rugged New River Gorge National Park and Preserve . Situated in the heart of whitewater rafting country , Hawks Nest State Park is a 270-acre recreational area with a nature museum , jetboat
Jenny Harnish , The Register-Herald
Good eats , great setting . Guests enjoy burritos and quesadillas at The Burrito Bar at Breeze Hill . The establishment touts its “ fresh food , cold drinks , live music and amazing sunsets .”
24 � DESTINATIONS � JUNE ’ 24