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Hawksbill Mountain Loop
Hiking Trail
Hard
2.69 mi
776 ft
A short loop to the highest peak in Shenandoah National Park.
Towering in at 4,050', Hawksbill Mountain is the highest peak anywhere in Shenandoah National Park. In addition to the stunning views, the summit is home to balsam fir, a tree typically only seen in the northern latitudes - especially in New England and Canada. It is also a nesting ground for peregrine falcons - "the fastest bird in the world and the fastest member of the animal kingdom [[source]( When hunting, they can reach speeds over 200mph! As mapped, this version of the hike begins at Hawksbill Gap on Skyline Drive. Though you could opt for an out-and-back to the overlook, this loop links the Lower Hawksbill and Salamander Trails with the Appalachian Trail - an excellent option for the entire family. All of the trails on this hike are dog friendly, and it's great when hiked in either direction! There is a large stone observation platform at the summit and plenty of other opportunities where you can find a quiet view of your own. Thanks to a spectacular 360-degree view, this is one of the most popular short hikes in the park, so get an early start to your day to avoid the crowds. [Wikipedia]( Written by Brendon Voelker
Towering in at 4,050', Hawksbill Mountain is the highest peak anywhere in Shenandoah National Park. In addition to the stunning views, the summit is home to balsam fir, a tree typically only seen in the northern latitudes - especially in New England and Canada. It is also a nesting ground for peregrine falcons - "the fastest bird in the world and the fastest member of the animal kingdom [[source]( When hunting, they can reach speeds over 200mph! As mapped, this version of the hike begins at Hawksbill Gap on Skyline Drive. Though you could opt for an out-and-back to the overlook, this loop links the Lower Hawksbill and Salamander Trails with the Appalachian Trail - an excellent option for the entire family. All of the trails on this hike are dog friendly, and it's great when hiked in either direction! There is a large stone observation platform at the summit and plenty of other opportunities where you can find a quiet view of your own. Thanks to a spectacular 360-degree view, this is one of the most popular short hikes in the park, so get an early start to your day to avoid the crowds. [Wikipedia]( Written by Brendon Voelker
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Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT (Bigler's and Wilmarth's Hawks Bill Parking to Salmander) | 0.99 mi | 282 ft | 4.6% |
| Appalachian Trail Climb | 0.45 mi | 302 ft | 12.6% |
| Appalachian Trail Climb | 0.93 mi | 456 ft | 9.2% |
| Shenandoah (Brian O's and Jereb's Salamander - AT to Hawksbill Summit) | 0.89 mi | 417 ft | 8.9% |