Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is an excellent place to go to experience the outdoors. Whether you are looking for somewhere to take your family, or looking to enjoy the woods on your own, Hawk Mountain sanctuary has beautiful trails and views for you to enjoy.
Hawk Mountain is a must-see destination for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The mountain, which is part of the Kittatinny Ridge, which is more widely connected to the Appalachian Mountains, with the Appalachian trail running nearby. It is a major migration pathway for hawks, eagles, and other raptors, making it one of the most popular hiking and birdwatching spots in Schuylkill County and the eastern United States.
Hawk Mountain Quick Information
The sanctuary, which was established in 1934, covers over 2,600 acres of land and is home to a variety of different habitats, including forests, fields, and wetlands.
Hours: 9am-5pm most days except for certain holidays and during specific hunting seasons.
Price (as of Jan 2023):
- Adults: $10
- Seniors (65+): $7
- Children (6-12): $5
- Children 5 and under: Free
Rules & Regulations: There are a variety of rules and regulations for your safety and other hiker safety.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hawk Mountain
Below are the questions we commonly receive about Hawk Mountain.
1. Where Is Hawk Mountain Located?
In Eastern/Central Pennsylvania, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is on the border of both Schuylkill County PA and Lehigh County and is located near Port Clinton, Orwigsburg, or New Ringgold, PA, and to the south Kempton.
One of the most direct routes to access Hawk Mountain is taking Exit 29 on interstate 78. This is the Hamburg PA exit which has a variety of rest top options as well as shopping like Cabelas. More importantly, this will give you access to Route 61 north which connects to route 895 east, which will lead you to state route 2018. This will lead you to the top of Hawk Mountain, where the sanctuary is located.
2. Do You Have To Pay To Hike At Hawk Mountain?
Yes, Hawk mountain is able to maintain the trails and produce research on migratory birds as well as develop the activities and programs in the area through attendees’ payment. You can pay before or after your hike at the main visitor center. Prices may vary, so be sure to visit Hawk Mountain’s website to see the most recent prices.
3. How Long Are The Hikes At Hawk Mountain?
The length of time it takes to hike the variety of trails at Hawk Mountain varies based on your skill as a hiker as well as the distance of the trail. The good news is you do not have to climb the entire mountain. A lot of the trails begin at the info center, which is towards the top ridgeline of the mountain.
4. When Is The Best Time Of Year To Visit Hawk Mountain?
While it depends on the bird migrations you are most interested in seeing, there are a wide range of migratory birds passing through Hawk Mountain’s skies in the fall and spring months. With the changes in seasons come the different migratory birds. For the fall, you should visit Hawk Mountain between August and December. In the spring, the best months are April and May.
5. Are There Bathrooms At Hawk Mountain?
Yes! There are bathrooms at Hawk mountain. Go into the visitor center, and the bathrooms are on the main floor.
Things To Do At Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
What is there to do at Hawk Mountain? A lot. Many people who visit for the first time miss the opportunity to see amazing views, hike beautiful trails, see a variety of hawks and nature, or enjoy the learning opportunities. Below are just a few things to do at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
1. Hike Trails At Hawk Mountain
Visitors can explore the mountain on a variety of trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the opportunity to spot a wide variety of bird species. The North Lookout is the most popular trail, and it offers a panoramic view of the Kittatinny Ridge and the Schuylkill River Valley.
2. Ornithology & Bird Watching At Hawk Mountain
Bird watchers have a variety of names they go by, and they each describe the personality and purpose of the bird watcher. Some refer to themselves as Twitchers; others call themselves Ornithologists. The list goes on to birders, listers, dude, and protobirder. Whatever “level” of bird watcher or bird researcher you are, Hawk mountain should definitely be on your bucket list of places to visit in Schuylkill County.
One of the most exciting times to visit Hawk Mountain is during the fall migration, when thousands of hawks, eagles, and other raptors pass through the area on their way south for the winter. The sanctuary staff and volunteers are on hand to help visitors spot and identify the different species of birds that can be seen flying overhead.
3. Education And Learning At Hawk Mountain
Hawk mountain is a step above many wildlife protective areas because of its educational value. Here you will find a place where your family can learn about Pennsylvania’s wilderness, bird flight patterns, and most of all hawks of course!
In addition to bird watching, visitors can also participate in a variety of educational programs and events that are held at the sanctuary throughout the year. These include guided bird walks, wildlife photography workshops, and nature lectures. The sanctuary also offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for those who are interested in getting more involved in conservation and education efforts.
4. Can You Camp At Hawk Mountain?
Only people who are part of Hawk Mountain’s Broadwing club can camp in the area. There are a few campsites that are available on a first come, first serve basis for those members.
There are also nearby areas that are available for camping in Auburn, PA, or more rugged camping on the Appalachian trail nearby. An outdoor Pavilion for hikers is located in Port Clinton
5. Aviary/Bird Photography At Hawk Mountain
Bird photography is a challenging and rewarding hobby that allows you to capture the beauty and grace of our feathered friends in the wild. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, Hawk Mountain in Southern Schuylkill County is the place to take great bird photos.
6. Landscape Photography At Hawk Mountain
One of the best places to take landscape photography in Pennsylvania is the Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. From Hawk Mountain, you have automatic access to views of ridges and valleys, and within a short 30-minute drive, you have access to coal country in the north in Schuylkill County, and to the southeast, you have the rolling hills of Lehigh Valley, and in Berks, there is a beautiful collection of farmland. The combination of natural beauty and the variety of landscapes make it a perfect destination for landscape photographers.
7. Summer Camps At Hawk Mountian
At Hawk Mountain, there are summer camp opportunities that are closely connected to the boy scouts. These summer nature camps are for youth from 1st-6th grade. A lot of the leaders are boy scouts or leaders who are skilled in outdoor activities and leadership.
Visit Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a great place to spend a day exploring nature and learning about the different species of birds that call the mountain home. Whether you are an experienced birder or just someone who loves the outdoors, you’re sure to have a great time at Hawk Mountain.
Be sure to visit other outdoor activities, hiking trails and parks, or camping in Schuylkill County. Schuylkill county has a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts or people looking for a place to eat in Schuylkill county after a long hike. Learn more about Schuylkill county here.
