Hiking Hawksbill Mountain
Luray, Virginia
Details
Distance
2.9 miles
Elevation Gain
738 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Jenn Gonzalez
Hawksbill Mountain is the highest peak in the Shenandoah National Park. At the summit you are rewarded with a 270 degree view of the Shenandoah's that is just amazing.
There are a few different ways to reach the summit. I chose to park in the Upper Hawksbill Parking lot. At the trailhead you can start on the Lower Hawksbill Trail that will give you a steep climb to the summit. I decided to start to the right on the Appalachian Trail. The trail winds through the woods and covers a good amount of elevation. It isn't as steep as the Lower Hawksbill Trail so for some this may be a better choice.
After a mile or so you'll reach a split in the trail. If you stay straight, you'll continue on the Appalachian Trail. But for this hike, go left on the Salamander Trail. From this point it is a .7 mile trek to the summit.
Towards the top, you'll see the Byrds Nest Shelter. You're super close at this point. You'll have amazing views of the mountains in front of you and the valley below unless there is heavy cloud cover. I preferred the clouds, myself, as it really made for striking photos.
You'll notice a brick landing area at the summit. This is where you can turn around and see all around. It isn't quite 360 degrees but it gets very close. This would be an ideal spot to view either the sunrise or the sunset. I didn't get to do either of those but I will on a return trip. For hiking in the dark, you can park at the Lower Hawksbill Parking lot and take the fire road to the summit. This would be an easier hike with limited light.
Along the trail you may see butterflies, black bears, deer, lizards, and many different kinds of wildflowers.
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