Hiking VA: Hawk's bill @ Shenandoah NP

 

Hawk's bill

The highest point in Shenandoah National Park, but it is very reachable.

Parking: Hawksbill Gap at mile 45.5. 

Tip: get a trail map. 

There are three ways to reach the summit. We took the loop - the longest way:

Hawksbill Loop Hike 2.9-mile circuit 2-hours hiking time

Moderate 860-foot elevation gain. 

From the north end of the Hawksbill Gap parking area at mile 45.5, take the short connector trail to the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). At the trail post. Then, turn left onto the A.T. south. Continue on the A.T. south to the trail post indicating the Salamander Trail. Go left onto the blue-blazed Salamander Trail. 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. To return to the parking area be sure to take the blue-blazed Lower (NOT the Upper) Hawksbill Trail.