Want to learn about raptors and see them in person? Located along the Appalachian flyway, Hawk Mountain straddles the Kittatinny Ridge, or Blue Mountain, a 300-mile-long, prominent ridge extending from 60 miles north of New York City to 20 miles west of Chambersburg, PA. It is here where every autumn, more than 20,000 birds of prey pass over, making their way from northern states and Canada to warmer climates. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is the oldest and largest wild bird sanctuary in nearby Kempton, PA, where trails and lookouts offered beautiful scenery and access to nature where my partner, his family and I came today. From the Visitors Center, which had some interesting exhibits and a gift shop where the admission fee was collected at $10 per person, the Lookout Trail was the easiest and most popular, covering a one-mile route to several lookout points along the ridge. Friendly staff members were positioned here to answer questions and point out birds. The trails were very well marked, and the trail map explained each so that one knows what you're getting into. We walked to North Lookout. It was the pinnacle of Hawk Mountain perching on top of the mountain at an elevation of 1,500 feet and offering a 200-degree view that stretches 70 miles on a clear day. This was a perfect place to work on photography and binocular skills, as well as a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts that we can recommend. read more

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One of the best day trips my son's Boy Scout group (29 in Bucks County) made was to Hawk Mountain, northwest of Allentown, south of Tamaqua and southeast of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, part of Blue Mountain Ridge. In mid October it was ablaze in autumn colors, even on a drizzling day. We were able to see the migration of Red Tailed Hawks, Peregrine Falcons and even a few Bald Eagles. The view from the North Lookout was spectacular, and the mile long hike along the ridge line was not overly strenuous with strong walking shoes. Our guys were working on several merit badges that required effort, study and attention. The natural beauty of the terrain and majesty of these amazing raptors, made it easy to want to explore as much as possible and bond closely with the wildlife. The staff were excellent teachers and guides. Even with all the extra information available on site, this dad found the most joy just walking out to the promontory overlooking the valley below, quieting my inner dialogue and simply allowing myself to drift as I communed with the Universe. Highly recommend Hawk Mountain for that day you need to get away and would enjoy a road trip either solo or with those you love. This is the oldest wildlife sanctuary in the world dedicated exclusively to the protection and observation of birds of prey. The 1,400 acres maintained by the non-profit Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Association is designated a U. S. National Landmark. If you have a weekend, there are several excellent inns and lodges to place your head after a long hike and good meal. Admission: $10 Adults. $5 Kids read more

Hawk Mountain - Bald Eagle over Hawk Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

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Spent a day here and loved it. The trails are well cared for and the staff is knowledgeable and dedicated. Hawk Mountain is the world's first sanctuary for birds of prey, started by an amateur ornithologist named Richard Pugh, during the Great Depression in the U.S. Its mission is to conserve birds of prey through science, education, and research. This is by far the most unique spot I've ever been to for bird watching, and I've been birding for a long time. It's off the beaten path, so easy to miss if driving too fast. I recommend hiking the Lookout Trail (orange) to get to the top. It's the fastest route. This sanctuary is very worth the time and effort to get here, family friendly too. Their website is reliable and informative, check it out before arriving. Finally, gotta have hiking shoes. read more

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Awesome hiking spot! The views are absolutely stunning from the top of the mountain. There is a $10 entry fee for adults, which can be purchased online or upon arrival. The information center and gift shop are fun for all ages, and maps can be acquired there before the hike. I would highly recommend visiting in early summer or fall. The staff keeps the trails neat and clean. As you hike, there are informative signs about the raptors at the sanctuary. Overall, it's a great place to visit. I recommend this place all the time to others who also love hiking! Don't forget your camera when you visit! read more

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Been here twice and loved it! It's a very nice hiking spot in PA, super clean. The views from the top are amazing as you can enjoy a nice lunch here! I recommend wearing supportive hiking shoes as there are boulders you would have to scramble over. I don't usually workout but I would rate this as a moderate hike. Would 100% return. read more

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What a beautiful place. We went with a friend who is a volunteer here and I now understand why she loves it so. The park is clean and the trails near the Visitor Center are well maintained and are ADA accessible. There is a wealth of information about the area and about the Hawks and other wildlife that frequent this preserve. I think the entry fees are well worth the preservation of the preserve and the outstanding maintenance of the trails and buildings. We went to the South Lookout and the view was magnificent. We saw a few red-tailed hawk soaring over the valley. Walking back, we followed the Silhouette Trail which features life-sized silhouettes of vultures and condors from around the world. Yep, I hope to make it back here again and spend more time exploring the further trails. read more

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We took a day off and decided to go for a hike up here, which we'd read some good things about. Overall, it was a fun hiking experience, though definitely a tough one, so you should know that before heading over. There's a $10 entry fee for adults, which you can buy either online ahead of time or at the gate with exact change in cash. We got to see some large raptors in the air, which was great, and there are some great views of the valley from a few of the lookouts such as the North and South Lookouts. Our path of choice was counter-clockwise around the sanctuary, which took us through the River of Rocks. The Golden Eagle Trail is a lot of incline up, so good to be aware of that. If you take that counter-clockwise path to get to the North Lookout, there's a fairly steep rock scramble to climb up - a challenge to climb up, but likely even harder to try climbing down! Not too many people here, so it was a nice socially distant activity during COVID-19. read more

Hawk Mountain is a truly gorgeous place. There's a multitude of animal species to be seen here and I particularly like going here for bird watching, but that should be obvious considering it's name. I usually see hummingbirds in the summer which is always a treat. Plus there's a bunch of walking and hiking trails to take across the mountain. Go in the autumn when it's a flurry of colors, you won't regret it. read more

Hawk Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

Admittedly, I am not a birdwatcher nor an experienced hiker but our afternoon at Hawk Mountain on Sunday was quite enjoyable. There is an entry fee $10 or $7 Senior, over 65 but we were treated to a number of lookouts, no hawk sightings (that's ok, we went for the hike and to get outdoors) and a slightly challenging trail. The weather was perfect on the day we went. Temps in the high 60's and plenty of blue sky. The lookouts get crowded and since it was a weekend there were plenty of families with children. If you're not into that, go during the week. read more

Hawk Mountain - Amazing views from the North Lookout. - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

Wanted to see the fall foliage and the color changes. Heard about this place and decided to make the trek from Philly. Was really impressed and it felt like cheating as I went up the mountain and hiked towards the valley to see the trees. read more

We did the "easy" trail to the north lookout. It was amazing!!! After the first mile or so, it was very rocky and full of stones/ pebbles but still worth it. It was $9 per person. Beautiful view from north lookout!!! read more

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Great place. 1) This is one of the best hike in PA. 2) If you are an experienced hiker, do the loop: start from the red trail (river of rocks trail) to the gold trail (golden eagle trail) to my personal favorite blue trail (Skyline trail) tot he amazing North Lookout on the orange trail - which will take you back to the parking. 3) However, with the 2+ hours worth of drive from my house; and the per person fee of 9 bucks - don't think I will return - when I have Minnewaska near to my house with better views. read more

Hawk Mountain - North Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

It's on the rare occasion that I paw into the wilds of PA, but when I do, more often than not this is my destination. Hawk Mountain is one of my most beloved sites in all of the state. There are few experiences more awe-inspiring than perching at the top of an escarpment on a brisk, effulgent fall day, sweat beading on your brow, blood coursing through your veins from the stress of a strenuous, boulder-strewn path and spotting a lone, majestic raptor soaring on an updraft in the panorama of a gorgeous, sweeping vista... GOD, it's brilliant. Hawk Mountain offers this and more to you for the mere price of 5 bucks*. Hawk Mountain is a nationally renowned birds-of-prey sanctuary nestled within the realm of the Poconos, with miles of clever trails ranging from one that accommodates even wheelchairs, to grueling (read: awesome) trails featuring 10-foot vertical drops and expansive 'scarps. Although it's magnificent all year 'round, autumn sees the migration of thousands of buteos, falcons, vultures & eagles, all on parade in the skies. Autumn also sees tons more people gallivanting around on the trails, so go early on weekends or try to go during the week. October is normally the best month to go, you see the most bird activity then.** I actually prefer to go here by myself; I don't have to mask my embarrassing panting and huffing when scaling over rocks, and I feel very at peace with myself and with nature. I recall my favorite book from childhood, My Side of the Mountain, and sometimes secretly wish that I could disappear into the thickets, fashion a dress of deerskin, and commune with the birds. So come, gawk at hawks! Just make sure you wear correct footwear, the trails are as rocky as the sky is blue. And please be objectively aware of your abilities...if your idea of hiking prior to coming to Hawk Mountain was puffing up the flight of stairs to your office, might want to wait on the more challenging hikes for a while. *7 bucks on Fall weekends **In December, several trails are closed for a spell due to hunting season. Keep this in mind when planning your trip. read more

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Hawk Mountain is a great place to visit with the family. Hawks and other birds of prey are clearly visible during this time of year, in oct-nov admission is 7 dollars, and the rest of the year it is 5 dollars. The first lookout of the trail is handicap accessible, there is a special all-terrain wheelchair designed and free to use if you need it. The visitors center has lots and lots of information about hawks, eagles, owls, birds, migration, obstacles they face (such as illegal poaching), the appalachian trail, mountains, etc. Pretty neat, very modern. The Appalachian Trail runs close by in that area, and there were an abundance of hikers in he area. Be sure to bring energy bars, snacks and drinks with you, and bundle up! read more

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Fantastic hawk sanctuary ! The views are breathtaking . Staff is super friendly, and very knowledgeable. We picked a great day to go : sunny, clear, no wind . I would strongly recommend hiking footwear. I wore sneakers with soft soles and 0 stability and now I feel it in my ankles . read more

Hawk Mountain - Hawk mountain North Lookout - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

Six dollars buys your way into Hawk Mountain. Think of it as an investment in preserving one of the major stopping places on the southern hawk migration highway. Numerous hawks use a number of different routes to migrate north in the spring, but many use a route that passes through this area on their way south in the fall. About 100 years ago people thought that hawks were pests, so this was an area where hunters would gather to shoot the breeze -- and a lot of hawks. This went on for decades until a wealthy heiress from New York bought the entire mountain and donated it for preservation. I was here in August for the first time since I was a child and didn't see any hawks. That doesn't mean that you shouldn't go. There are breathtaking views. It's about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia. You owe it to youself and some friends and family to spend an afternoon up here. If you want to see hawks, then September to November is the time to be here. Most people are probably going to hike to the top up the Lookout Trail or the Escarpment Trail. These are the busier trails, very safe and easy walks up to several lookouts, including the main North Lookout. That's probably about 45 minutes to the top. Others might opt for the longer River or Rocks, then Golden Eagle Trail, then the Skyline Trail (about a four-hour hike). These, as advertized, have a lot of rocks (in some places, people should just clear some of the smaller rocks from the trail). Along the ridge of the mountain along the Skyline Trail we are talking boulders. In some cases you climb right up them. I stopped at one point along the Skyline Trail and decided that I would hop down a few boulders and look at the valley below -- until I heard the rattlesnake and quickly backed away. They get to live here, too. I would strongly advise that you wear good hiking shoes, stay on the trail, carry a cell phone (they do work here), and bring water. Hike with others if you can. Make a little noise while you hike. I continued along and about five minutes later another hiker warned me of another rattler. There was a fork in the trail so I just stayed to the right; there was never a threat. Given that they are here, and that you pay $6 to get in, I'm hoping that the visitor center has some emergency first aid for snake bites. An emergency call box at the North Lookout might also be helpful. I didn't see any signs warning people about snakes. Or you can just wait for the hawks to fly off with a few of them. read more

Hawk Mountain - Typical gorgeous view - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

It blows my mind that people complain about the price. This site is beautiful and extremely well maintained. This in addition to what it takes to educate the community about preserving these resources costs money. Well worth it in my opinion. Also, I can see why they don't want dogs and feel responsible people would think the same. We always hike with our Lab and love it but we certainly would not have enjoyed it as much had we taken him. The terrain is difficult even for those with agile and well trained dogs. It's an invitation for disaster. read more

Nothing ever short of 5 stars here. Trails range from rugged where you are walking over rocks and boulders for one hour to some trails where there are only a few rocks until you reach the sprawling vistas. Dress warm, Purchase a membership because it pays for itself and try to avoid weekends if you can. read more

The view at the North Lookout is gorgeous. If you can, you need to get up there. There are many stone bench along the trail for you to rest. Get up there early morning and you can view the sun rising at the north side while the south side still cover with morning fog. The north lookout is right at the middle. Becareful if you want to try the River of Rock trail. At some area, especially area with rocks, it is hard to find the trail. Be very careful to look for the red paint on trees or rocks that mark the direction. read more

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Very beautiful well-maintained and easy hiking area! It has something for everybody! Some of the trails are quite difficult, but most people can experience all of the beautiful scenery with little effort! I'd recommend this hike over and over again! I enjoyed climbing up the boulders on some of the trails, doing a little sprawling, and getting out on some serious ledges and looking over! The hawks are beautiful and I just absolutely loved this hike! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED from a seasoned and traveled hiker!! http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/33507167 read more

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Beautiful, educational, tranquil, and did I mention beautiful! There are hiking trails for even inexperienced hikers, although as with any hike you should be prepared with water and proper shoes. We sat though one of the raptor education sessions, very informative and fun. read more

I went with a class trip and I was not expecting how much climbing over rocks and boulders we would be doing. It was very hard and kids kept falling. It's a beautiful place. Especially when you get to the top and your sitting out watching the birds. It is very dangerous though especially for a class trip... But again very beautiful. read more

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Eek. I almost missed out. A $9 entry fee scared me pretty good, but i went anyway. I must say, it was very worth it. The trails are beautifully maintained with great mixes of hiking, climbing, scrambling, and leisurely walks. I'm exited to go back for the migratory bird event. read more

Can't hike with your dog... Look outs were pretty but not that impressive. We'll go to any other park next time.

I love this place! You'll often find me here on the weekends during the warmer months. Known for the world's longest record of raptor populations, this spectacularly beautiful Sanctuary encompasses an 8-mile trail system for both novice and advanced hikers. They're open year-round with great hours (from dawn to dusk) so you can come here anytime. There are several scenic overlooks that provide stunning and breath-taking views of the valley floor. The trails go from relatively flat and easy to jaw-dropping steep, rugged and daunting so either take one of the free complimentary maps (provided at the entrance of the trail) or a reliable compass. No one wants to get lost in these woods. I doubt many of us have Daniel Boone skills. Also, wear proper footwear and clothes! I can't emphasize that more. It gets really, really crowded here from Spring through Fall during peak hours from 10 to 4, so plan ahead. Getting here a bit early is probably best to avoid the crowds and slow-pokes. There is a modest trail fee to access the Sanctuary but it all goes towards a great educational program and conservatory cause. P.S. - Bring a pair of binoculars!! read more

I'm sure the place is great if you just want to go hiking but if you're going bring your dogs I'm going to warn you now not to. We went out with our two dogs. We have tiny dogs, a Jack Russell and a Maltese mix. This lady that volunteers there said to us excuse me sorry you can't have dogs here! Dogs are not allowed in the wild life reserve. I was like excuse me and she said yeah dogs are not allowed here at all. So if your planning on going with your dogs don't go !!!! read more

Great quick and easy drive from Philly on a Sunday afternoon. Great destination for one of the best vistas you'll get in the region, with Hawks flying around as a bonus to the experience. The biggest downside was that we couldn't bring our dog on the main lookout trails. In hindsight, I kind of understand, because there are some tricky parts of the incline that require your full attention (nothing crazy, just moments where a dog could be an inconvenience, especially if the dog is small and energetic). The good news is there is a decent leg of the Appalachian Trail about 1/2 mile down the road from the sanctuary if you need to wear out the dog; then you can come back to the actual park/trail and leave the dog in the car (if it's that kind of dog) while you quickly take the express trail to the north lookout. You'll only be leaving the dog alone for about an hour -- less if you're quick. I hope to take the longer trail next time. Quick tip: THEY REALLY DO NOT HAVE ANY WASTEBASKETS ANYWHERE ON SITE -- ANYWHERE, REALLY. SO DON"T EXPECT TO DUMP YOUR ROY ROGERS CUP AND PROTEIN BAR WRAPPERS ANYWHERE EXCEPT FOR YOUR CAR TRUNK UNTIL YOU GET BACK TO ALLENTOWN. read more

For $7 you could hike a beautiful trails and watch Hawks and Vultures surround the different lookouts. I am not a birdwatcher and had never gone hiking, but I loved this place. Check the site for the best times to visit. http://hawkmountain.org/ The hiking isn't extreme. The trails are worn enough to know where you are going but the trail also has rocks to look out for. Its about a 15 - 20 minute hike to the North lookout. Young children may have trouble climbing rocks. Also, since it is a sanctuary, there are no trash cans...anywhere.... so take food and drinks that you could easily store in a back pack such as bottles vs cans. read more

Came back on October 27th to hike the River of Rocks trail, as well as part of Golden Eagle (unintentionally) and this time stopped to check out the Slide lookout and the Sunset Overlook. This was a really fun trail to navigate, but expect it to be a lot of rock-hopping, and not much walking. Recommended for sure-footed hikers, and we really depended on our walking sticks. I took my SLR camera, but could have gotten by with a phone camera for the trail itself, which doesn't lend itself to much in the way of photos. Go for the sheer enjoyment of the hike and leave the big camera at the car for later. We climbed all the way to the top of Sunset Lookout (almost at sunset), and while it was a fun little climb the view itself was actually not that impressive. Absolutely perfect time of year for the visit. read more

Wow, I planned this hike with a friend for our hiking club. She picked out the River of Rocks to the North Lookout by Express Trail. It was amazing and also pretty challenging. River of Rocks is really rocky so be careful. Once you get through it, you get some great views of Hawk Mountain. I saw some wonderful views of the Appalachian Mountain range with hawks flying above. You will not be disappointed. $5 adult out of season and $7 adult in season (Sept-Oct). read more

Perfect place for a quick hike with the kids. I guess what we did wasn't really a hike though. It's a five minute walk from the car to the overlook which was spectacular. And i beautiful little garden trail was even closer. Complete with gazebo, ferns, wildflowers, Lilly pads, a snake or two. I'm sure there were more trails but we just stopped for a quick look. read more

I came here for the first time about 15 years ago, for a high school field trip. I fell in love with Hawk Mountain immediately. While I didn't get to come back again until a few years ago, I now make it a point to try and visit every Autumn. The rocky climb is well worth it for the view you are awarded at the top. Come in the Fall, when the leaves have already turned. It's breathtaking. read more

Bird watchers have more fun. The ride up to hawk mountain is truly wonderful. The parking lot and visitors center are clearly marked and offer indoor rest rooms. The experience walking the trails and taking in the vistas is spectacular. The north lookout requires some hiking over rocks so hiking shoes are recommended. Regardless of the time of year this place will help you find inner peace. My personal tip would be a weekday visit . The staff at the visitors center is friendly and helpful. Binoculars are available for rent for $5 for the day. Pack a picnic basket and go to the top of hawk mountain and be one with nature . Kids and adults alike will love the hikes and lookout points located throughout. read more

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I just had the worst experience I have ever had out in nature. And I paid $30 for it ($10 per person, 3 ppl in our group). A trail as crowded as Disneyland. People passing and making accidental physical contact (definitely not 6ft apart) because in many places along the trails there's no way to pass and be socially distant. Although this place has asked the public to take precautions regarding COVID-19 such as requiring masks and asking people to be socially distant, they have not limited or staggered admission to protect the public - and their own staff. This results in too many people on their trails and no one is truly able to socially distance themselves. Hawk Mountain is collecting a huge influx of money from overselling admission to their trails but overcrowding those trails is putting people at risk, not just for COVID-19 but physically at risk. I saw many instances of people scrambling to get out-of-the-way, kids running through crowds and stumbling over rocks. It's in everyone's best interest to limit and stagger admission. I left without being able to enjoy myself and the wonderful experience it seems to be, due to the insanity of the crowds. And I won't be going back unless Hawk Mountain is willing to take genuine precautions to protect the public and their staff. read more

Well worth the 90 minute drive each way. Moderate hike to some very picturesque outlooks. The price is a bit high at $6 per adult, but the trails and facilities are well maintained. There is also a guide at the north outlook spotting birds for you. read more

We went Hiking at Hawk Mountain this weekend and had a very bad experience. We were asked from the beginning if we have ever been hiking here and we proceeded to say no, she then warned us about rocks but nothing else. As we continue of the very bad marked trails we ran into a huge rattlesnake. Hoping for the best we continue the trail to where I almost step on a huge black rattlesnake's rattle and it starts to rattle at us so we run and jump onto a rock. As me who is deathly afraid of snakes, and most importantly venomous ones I am crying my eyes out and having a full blown panic attack as so are my friends. As out other friends try to get to us they look down and also see a large black rattlesnake at their feet and cannot move. No where on the trail does it mention to keep a look out for venoms snakes that could mean life or death if accidentally stepped on. As we got back to the gift shop and i asked the same lady if she had known there was rattlesnakes on the trail she shock her head yes and then told me it is a good habitat for them. THIS IS THE SAME LADY WHO HAS ASKED IF WE HAVE EVER HIKED HERE BEFORE. so what was supposed to be a 4 mile hike turned into 9 miles, running out of water, a panic and asthma attack later WHIOLE HAVING TO TURN AROUND. There should be signs or warning for people who have never been there and want to enjoy a fun day with friends and family. read more

Visited hawk mountain after a conference in Philadelphia. This place is a gem and active wildlife sanctuary. Trails were well marked, the staff was extremely helpful and provided maps and directions. Make sure to bring enough water as we each went through more than one liter of water hiking river of rocks trail and up to the north lookout. Proceeds go to help sustain the conservancy. read more

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Very beautiful area. I wasn't to thrilled with the trail "fee" but it's small and easily digestible. Be forewarned if you're going from the north lookout to the skyline trail this is a legitimate 30 foot vertical drop you must carefully climb. Prepare with good grip boots/shoes for there are plenty of rocks/boulders to traverse. Be aware that rattle snake sightings are common. read more

Hawk Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Kempton, Pennsylvania

A great location with beautiful views and very well-maintained hiking trails. We traveled to the location from Alexandria, VA, in search of a challenging hike on a beautiful, crisp fall day and we weren't disappointed. Actually, we were very pleasantly surprised. Don't be surprised at the amount of cars in the parking lots because once you get out on the trails, you'll find the solitude you're looking for. We started at the visitor's center which offers lectures, equipment, snacks, souvenirs, and restrooms. We then proceeded through the main entrance starting at the South Lookout. We hiked the River of Rocks trail leading to the Golden Eagle trail then the East Rocks trail to the North Lookout. It was an exhilarating and challenging hike. The River of Rocks was an incredible sight and well worth the trek. If you follow the path we did, make sure you come prepared with the proper footwear, water and snacks. Using the East Rocks trail to approach the North Lookout is not for the faint of heart. There are several large rock scrambles you'll have to navigate. Along the way to the North Lookout, you'll be amazed with the views and you'll be happy you made the effort. Finally, as you make your approach to the North Lookout you'll be surprised by one last challenging uphill rock scramble that seems daunting but, once again, is well worth the effort! Thank you to the folks at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary for a great adventure! read more

Love coming up here and going hiking with my kids. The trails are very well marked and it's a pretty easy climb to the North Lookout if you stick to the main trail. There are several lookouts along the trail and if you looking for a more challenging hike, there are options for that as well. We like to pack our lunch and then make our way to the North Lookout where we hang around for a bit and eat our lunch before making our way back down. We've been twice so for this summer and unfortunately the hawk action was pretty minimal, but looking forward to going back again this fall. Down at the entrance is a little gift shop that also offers some drinks and a few snacks. At both the South and North Lookouts are guides to answer any questions you have and they typically have binoculars that you can borrow while at the lookout. You can also rent them if you'd rather. One thing to note is dogs are not allowed so if you were hoping to go hiking with your pooch, then this is not the place to go to. If you plan on coming here multiple times per year, then the annual pass they offer is a better deal, but in general, it's not expensive at all to come here. Looking forward to my next visit, which will hopefully include some lovely fall foliage and more hawk action! read more