There are so many ways to travel through West Virginia's beautiful countryside. You can opt for the traditional option: by road. But that's definitely not your only choice!You can also hike or bike one of our long rail trails. You can take a train, an ATV, or a boat.
Or...you can hop on an aerial tram.
Hawks Nest State Park and Lodge in Ansted, West Virginia, is perched right on the edge of the New River Gorge.
It's a gorgeous spot to stay, eat, hike, and unwind, all while enjoying incredible views.
And one of the best ways to enjoy the views at Hawks Nest is via tram.
That's right: hop into one of these little space pods and lift off, thanks to the poles and pulleys plunging down into the gorge.
The tramway takes you down to a system of rail trails at the bottom of the New River Gorge.
If you plan to hike before riding the tram back up to the lodge, we recommend choosing the 1-mile trail over the old trestle bridge to Mill Creek Falls. In addition to the falls, you will pass the foundations of an old water tower and the remains of Mill Creek Mine along the way.
There's more to do at Hawks Nest State Park than just ride the aerial tram, though.
You can stay overnight at the lodge (request a room with a view of the gorge!), eat at the restaurant, hike one of the many trails, or take a boat ride up the New River.
So come enjoy the views of one of West Virginia's most popular natural wonders from the overlook, the restaurant, the lodge, and the tram!
The New River Gorge always delivers.
The Hawk's Nest Aerial Tramway's schedule varies seasonally; contact the park at 304-658-5212 for the current operating schedule. There is a small per-person charge to ride the tram, but entrance into the state park itself is always free. For more information, visit the West Virginia State Parks website.
And for another amazing West Virginia State Park aerial tram option, try the one at Pipestem Resort.
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