Hawksbill Loop

A circuit hike to Shenandoah’s highest peak. The viewing platform on top of Hawksbill offers a magnificent 360-degree view of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the Virginia Piedmont.

Note that very limited closures are in effect in an effort to prevent further degradation of important outcrop ecosystems on Hawksbill.

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Distance: 2.9-mile circuit hike
Difficulty: Moderate (hiking difficulty scale)
Hiking Time: 2 hour
Elevation Gain: 860 feet

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Hike Description

1. From the north end of the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area (mile 45.5), take the short connector trail to the Appalachian Trail (A.T.).
2. At the trail post, turn left onto the A.T. south.
3. Continue on the A.T. south to the trail post indicating the Salamander Trail. Go left onto the blue-blazed Salamander Trail.
4. At the next trail junction, turn left onto the Upper Hawksbill Trail. Be sure to take the short trail past the shelter to the viewing platform.
5. To return to the parking area, be sure to take the blue-blazed Lower Hawksbill Trail, not the Upper Hawksbill Trail.

Details

Duration

2-3 Hours

The average hike duration does not take into consideration fitness, exploration, rest, contemplation, etc.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes

Pets must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.

Activity Fee

No

An entrance fee is required to get into Shenandoah National Park.

Location

Central District (Mile 45.5)

The trailhead for this hike is located at the Hawksbill Gap parking area.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Accessibility Information

This trail does not meet ADA accessibility guidelines.

Download the trail map
Click the image to download the trail map. Print it out at home or save it to your phone to take with you on your hike.