Hiking Hawksbill Mountain in Shenandoah National Park: Your Complete Guide

October 13, 2025

Hiking Hawksbill Mountain in Shenandoah National Park: Your Complete Guide

Looking for one of the best hikes in Shenandoah? Climb to the highest point in the park—Hawksbill Mountain—and soak up 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from trail options to summit tips.

Why Hike Hawksbill Mountain?

The Highest Point in Shenandoah National Park

If reaching the highest summit in Shenandoah is on your hiking bucket list, Hawksbill delivers. At 4,050 feet, it's the tallest mountain in the park and offers some of the best vistas on the entire Skyline Drive.

Iconic Blue Ridge Views

At the summit, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of the Shenandoah Valley, Blue Ridge Mountains, and on clear days, even Massanutten Mountain. It’s the perfect spot for photography, reflection, or just catching your breath.

How to Get to Hawksbill Mountain

📍 Location: Skyline Drive, Shenandoah National Park
🚗 Parking Area: Hawksbill Gap (Milepost 45.6) or Upper Hawksbill (Milepost 46.7)
📡 GPS Coordinates: 38.5565° N, 78.4001° W
🏙️ Nearest Town: Luray, Virginia

⚠️ Tip: Parking fills up fast during peak seasons (especially fall). Arrive early or visit on weekdays to avoid the crowds.

Trail Options to Reach the Summit

1. Hawksbill Loop Trail (Moderate – 2.9 miles)

Trailhead: Hawksbill Gap
Elevation Gain: ~860 feet
Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

The loop combines the Lower Hawksbill Trail and Upper Hawksbill Trail, giving you a well-rounded experience of the area’s forested beauty and ridgeline views.

🥾 Recommended Route: Hike up via Lower Hawksbill and descend via Upper Hawksbill for a gradual return.

2. Upper Hawksbill Trail (Easy to Moderate – 2.1 miles round trip)

Trailhead: Upper Hawksbill parking (Milepost 46.7)
Elevation Gain: ~500 feet
Time: 1 to 1.5 hours

⭐This is the easiest route to the summit and perfect for families, beginners, or anyone short on time.

3. Lower Hawksbill Trail (Strenuous – 1.7 miles round trip)

Trailhead: Hawksbill Gap parking
Elevation Gain: ~750 feet
Time: ~1 hour

The shortest but steepest option. A great workout with a fast payoff—if you're up for the incline.

What to Expect at the Summit

🏞️ Summit Highlight: A stone observation platform with 360° views of Shenandoah Valley, Blue Ridge ridges, and more.

🛖 There's also a shelter hut near the summit used by Appalachian Trail hikers and backcountry campers. Remember to clean up after yourself.

🦅 You may even spot hawks and falcons circling overhead—it’s how Hawksbill got its name!

View from Hawksbill Mountain summit in Shenandoah National Park

Best Time to Hike Hawksbill Mountain

🌸 Spring (April–June)

Cool temps, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds make spring a wonderful time to visit.

☀️ Summer (July–August)

Green and lush, but it can be hot and humid. Hike early and bring plenty of water.

🍁 Fall (September–November)

Peak foliage season—expect brilliant autumn colors, crisp air, and larger crowds.

❄️ Winter (December–March)

Peaceful and quiet. Dress warmly, check for Skyline Drive closures, and beware of icy trails.

What to Bring

✔️ Hiking shoes or boots
✔️ Water bottle or hydration pack
✔️ Layers of clothing
✔️ Trail snacks or lunch
✔️ Sunscreen and sunglasses
✔️ Bug spray (in warmer months)
✔️ Trail map or offline app (AllTrails recommended)

Trail Safety & Etiquette

Stick to marked trails to avoid erosion and protect fragile vegetation.
Pack out what you pack in—no littering.
Keep pets leashed—pets are allowed on Hawksbill trails, but must be under control.
Check the weather—fog and storms can roll in quickly.
Don’t rely on cell service—bring a paper map or download offline navigation.

Nearby Hikes to Explore

Want to keep the adventure going? Check out these nearby gems:

🌄 Stony Man Mountain (Milepost 41.7) – Easier hike with killer views
🌊 Dark Hollow Falls (Milepost 50.7) – Short and scenic waterfall trail
🥾 Appalachian Trail – Connects to both Upper and Lower Hawksbill trails

Final Thoughts: Is Hawksbill Worth the Hike?

100% yes. Hawksbill Mountain is one of the most rewarding hikes in Shenandoah National Park. With multiple trail options, a breathtaking summit, and accessibility right off Skyline Drive, it’s ideal for hikers of all levels.

Whether you're catching sunrise, chasing fall colors, or just looking for a memorable afternoon hike, Hawksbill delivers.

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