Fayetteville, West Virginia, has been voted one of the “Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America.” It’s ground zero for all the outdoor activities in the New River Gorge and it’s the closest town to the New River Bridge. So for a small town of around 2,700 residents, Fayetteville has plenty of things to do and see. Plus, find some great restaurants and a beautiful, stately courthouse downtown. Fayetteville is just 35 miles from our cabins.
In town, have a picnic in the town park, walk the historic district or see a play at the Historic Fayette Theatre. Buy local produce at the Fayette County Farmers’ Market. Then visit the New River Gorge National Park Visitors Center, hike, bike, fish or go whitewater rafting.
Hiking at Hawks Nest State Park
Nestled in the heart of whitewater rafting country, Hawks Nest State Park encompasses 276 acres bordering a rugged section of the New River Gorge National River and known for the panoramic views.
The Cliffside Trail starts at the lodge and follows the canyon side cliffs to the Hawks Nest Overlook. The trail offers excellent opportunity for examination of the geology and New River forest ecosystem. The trail is average difficulty with some steep slopes and sturdy shoes are recommended. Distance: 2 miles.
Fisherman’s Trail is a short trail following the rivers’ edge starting at the public boaters access areas. The trail provides access for fishing and vantage point to see the Hawks Nest Dam. Public access to the dam and industrial site is prohibited. Distance: 1 mile.
Lovers Leap Trail starts at the tram way upper station and travels down a steep grade of wood steps and series of steep grade changes with over 100 steps down to a rock outcropping. The trail is rigorous exercise traveling along uneven wood and rock surfaces.
The GSYP trail is named for the summer maintenance crew that dug this trail into the hillside down to the river area. The trail provides an excellent hike to the river and features a series of switch backs and steps through a beautiful mature forest. The trail comes out at the river boater parking lot, hikers can purchase a one-way ticket on the tramway (in season) to hitch-hike back up mountainside. A great place to view wildlife. Sturdy close-toe shoes are recommended. Distance: 1.5 miles.
Hawks Nest Rail Trail is a 1.8 miles (one way) easy walking, gravel trail featuring two trestles and many waterfall vantage points. The trail is a great place for a short stroll or connection to the river via a bike. The trail can be a circle trail using the River Road (vehicle traffic) or by connecting a lift on the tramway.
Summit Bechtel Reserve
Near our cabins (33 miles) is The Summit Bechtel Family National Scout Reserve, aka the Summit. It is the permanent site of the national Scout jamboree and home to the Boy Scouts of America’s newest national high-adventure base. The Summit occupies 10,600 acres in West Virginia’s New River Gorge region—a world-renowned adventure sports destination known for its world-class climbing rock, mountain biking and whitewater. The Summit is an adventure center for the millions of youth and adults involved in the Boy Scouts of America and anyone who loves the outdoors. Held once every four years, the national scout jamboree is a chance to camp out with friends, meet new friends, try high-adventure activities, learn new skills, and enjoy the outdoors. Over 10 days, there are exhibits, stadium shows with entertainment, opportunities to work on merit badges.
Places to Stay to Play
All of this is near our West Virginia cabin rentals near Fayetteville: See Star Song 1 Cottage | See Star Song 2 Cottage