Vista; 1.7-2.9 miles; easy to moderately strenuous; MM 45.6; Hawksbill map; Upper Hawksbill map

Hawksbill Mountain is the highest point in the park with widespread views both east and west. At the Hawksbill Gap Parking area , MM 45.6 on Skyline Dr in the Shenandoah National Park (SNP), there are two separate routes from which to choose to get to the top.  The first option is the Lower Hawksbill Trail, a short but steep, 1.7 miles round trip hike.  For a more moderate but longer route, choose the second option, a 2.9-mile circuit with beautiful views as you make your way up the trail.  This circuit trail begins on the Appalachian Trail and then continues on the Salamander Trail to the top; return to the parking area via the Lower Hawksbill Trail.

Alternatively, park at the Upper Hawksbill Mountain Parking area at MM 46.7 on Skyline Dive.  Follow the Upper Hawksbill Trail for an easy to moderate 2.1 miles round trip hike.  All three options lead to the same spectacular viewpoint.

Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Visit SNP website for exceptions.