Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
World's first refuge for birds of prey, offering stunning views and prime raptor migration observation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak raptor migration season
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Best Time
Peak raptor migration season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
World's first refuge for birds of prey, offering stunning views and prime raptor migration observation.
"Absolutely beautiful!! This is a must see there are different trails for everyones ability beautiful walk takes about 2 hours if you take your time to get to the top where the views are."
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be very rocky; good traction is essential for safety and enjoyment. :athletic_shoe:
Get Your Wristband First
Admission wristbands are required for trail access and can be purchased at the bookstore. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
North Lookout
North Lookout Trail
Panoramic 270-degree views of the Kittatinny Ridge and surrounding valleys. A prime spot for raptor spotting.
South Lookout
South Lookout Trail
Easily accessible viewpoint offering scenic vistas, perfect for a less strenuous nature experience.
Raptor Migration Viewing
Various lookouts
Witness thousands of migrating hawks, eagles, and falcons during peak seasons (fall and spring).
Visitor Center & Gift Shop
Visitor Center
Learn about birds of prey, local ecology, and browse unique nature-themed souvenirs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Optimal Views
Trail Preparedness is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be very rocky; good traction is essential for safety and enjoyment. :athletic_shoe:
Get Your Wristband First
Admission wristbands are required for trail access and can be purchased at the bookstore. :ticket:
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience and spot raptors from a distance. :binoculars:
Check Trail Difficulty
Trails range from accessible to difficult; choose based on your fitness level. :hiking_boot:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails can be very rocky; good traction is essential for safety and enjoyment. :athletic_shoe:
Get Your Wristband First
Admission wristbands are required for trail access and can be purchased at the bookstore. :ticket:
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your birdwatching experience and spot raptors from a distance. :binoculars:
Check Trail Difficulty
Trails range from accessible to difficult; choose based on your fitness level. :hiking_boot:
Visit the Visitor Center
Learn about raptor conservation and the sanctuary's history. :information_desk:
Pack Snacks & Water
Essential for longer hikes, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring. :water_bottle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Hawk Mountain Sanctuary for its stunning scenic views and the unique opportunity to witness raptor migration. The well-maintained trails, though sometimes rocky, offer a rewarding hiking experience for various fitness levels. The educational aspect and the conservation mission are also highly appreciated, making it a fulfilling nature escape.
"Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a lovely nature escape in this part of Pennsylvania. It’s easy to get to, with a large parking lot that makes arrival stress-free. Admission is about $10 per adult, which you pay at the bookstore inside. They’ll give you a wristband for hiking, which gets checked as you enter the trail area. All of the trails start from the same main point, making it simple to navigate.
The sanctuary has a small but informative indoor space with educational displays about birds of prey and the local ecosystem, along with a nice little gift shop. Facilities include vault toilets, which are basic but appreciated after a hike. Right next door, there’s a beautiful garden worth strolling through, as well as an amphitheater for events.
The trails are well-marked, and the lookouts offer peaceful views—especially lovely during migration season. While the vistas aren’t the most dramatic you’ll ever see, they’re still scenic and satisfying after a short, accessible hike.
Overall, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a great option for a relaxed day trip—whether you want to learn about raptors, enjoy a few miles of hiking, or just soak in the fresh mountain air."
Melissa Jack
"For the big loop that covers most of the sanctuary, some parts are mark as Difficult while some are Most Difficult. About 1000ft of elevation, though you can take it just as fun with good pace and caution.
Very rocky, definitely should have hiking shoes/ boots for traction and watch your steps. If you do the big loop of over 5 miles, counterclockwise is better imho as you hike and the North lookout is rewarding towards the end, also you can see better for the boulder parts.
Family friendly with different levels of fitness, small kids can check out the garden and around visitor center. Well marked trails.
Shorter hike can be done from South to North lookout for all the good view. Then if you climb from there, you’re committing to the challenge by clockwise route.
Plenty of parking spots, nice and very helpful volunteers. Bring your binoculars and some snacks to enjoy the amazing views of the birds"
Kat Nguyen
"Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is an absolute gem for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts alike! From the moment you arrive, you're surrounded by stunning scenery, peaceful forest sounds, and some of the most breathtaking views you’ll ever see.
The hiking trails are well-marked and offer a range of difficulty levels—from moderate walks to more physically demanding treks that reward you with sweeping panoramic vistas. The North Lookout is a must-see; the view from the top is simply unforgettable, especially during peak hawk migration season!
This place is more than just a hike—it's a chance to reconnect with nature, take in the fresh mountain air, and experience the beauty of Pennsylvania wildlife in a serene, protected environment. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the visitor center offers great information about raptor conservation.
Highly recommend for families, solo adventurers, photographers, or anyone looking to escape the noise and soak in nature’s beauty. Can’t wait to go back!"
J.W. Howell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is located at 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd, Kempton, PA 19529. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Many visitors mention the stress-free arrival due to the large parking lot. If you're coming from Philadelphia, it's a popular day trip destination.
The Lookout Trail is partially wheelchair accessible to the South Lookout, offering scenic views. However, many other trails involve rocky terrain and significant elevation changes, making them less accessible.
From the east, take I-78 West to Exit 40 (New Tripoli). Turn left onto PA-143 South, then right onto Hawk Mountain Road. From the west, take I-78 East to Exit 35 (Windsor Castle). Turn right onto PA-143 North, then left onto Hawk Mountain Road. mentions nearby Kempton, PA, which can be a useful reference point.
Public transportation options to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary are limited. It is primarily a destination best reached by private vehicle. highlights nearby cabin stays, suggesting a car is necessary for exploring the area.
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Philadelphia, making it a feasible day trip for those looking to escape the city and enjoy nature.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are charged to support the sanctuary's conservation efforts. Adults typically pay around $10, with reduced rates for children. The fee grants access to all trails.
While advance booking isn't always mandatory, it's advisable, especially during peak migration seasons. You'll receive a wristband for trail access after paying the admission fee at the bookstore.
The sanctuary is generally open daily, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Hawk Mountain Sanctuary website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit. mentions it's a private, non-profit sanctuary.
Yes, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary offers membership options for frequent visitors, which can provide benefits like free admission and discounts.
Typically, pets are not allowed on the trails at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary to protect the wildlife and natural habitat. Always check the sanctuary's official policy for the most current rules regarding pets. 
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The North Lookout Trail offers the most dramatic views and is a prime spot for raptor spotting. The South Lookout Trail is more accessible. For a challenging hike, consider the longer loops which can take 4-5 hours and involve significant rock scrambling. +1
The peak season for hawk migration is from September to November, with the most activity often occurring in October. Spring also offers a secondary migration period.
The sanctuary has a visitor center with educational displays and a gift shop, vault toilets, and a garden area. Some visitors mention basic but appreciated facilities.
mentions nearby cabin stays for a more complete getaway.
While hawks are the main attraction, visitors may also spot other birds of prey like eagles and falcons, as well as various other wildlife native to the region.
Yes, families can enjoy the sanctuary. The garden and areas around the visitor center are great for younger children, and shorter, accessible trails like the South Lookout offer beautiful views without extreme difficulty.
📸 📸 Photography
The North Lookout and South Lookout offer stunning panoramic views that are ideal for landscape photography. During migration season, capturing birds of prey in flight is a major draw for photographers.
For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens is useful. For bird photography, a telephoto lens (300mm or longer) is highly recommended to capture details of raptors in flight. suggests bringing binoculars, which can also aid in spotting subjects.
Generally, personal photography is allowed and encouraged. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check the sanctuary's guidelines for specific restrictions.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. During migration, any time the birds are active can be spectacular. mentions breathtaking views.
The Visitor Center may have educational displays or live raptors for rehabilitation programs. Photography rules for these specific exhibits should be followed as posted. and
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring snacks and water, and consider binoculars to make birdwatching an interactive experience for the little ones. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The North Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views that make the effort worthwhile. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be quite rocky. 📸 Photographers
For wildlife photographers, the fall migration season is unparalleled, offering the chance to capture stunning images of raptors in flight. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Mission of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
This pioneering conservation effort was spearheaded by individuals like Rosalie Edge, who recognized the ecological importance of these raptors. Today, the sanctuary continues its vital work, monitoring migration patterns, conducting research, and educating the public about the significance of raptor conservation. Visitors can learn more about this rich history and ongoing mission at the Visitor Center.
The sanctuary's commitment extends beyond just protecting birds; it encompasses the preservation of the entire ecosystem of the Kittatinny Ridge. By safeguarding this critical migratory corridor, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary plays a crucial role in the health of regional biodiversity.
Navigating the Trails and Terrain
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, the Lookout Trail provides access to the South Lookout, which is partially wheelchair accessible. This trail offers beautiful views without demanding significant physical exertion.
Visitors are strongly advised to wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good traction to navigate the uneven surfaces safely. When planning a longer hike, such as the 'big loop' covering over 5 miles, consider the direction. Hiking counterclockwise is often recommended, as the North Lookout provides a rewarding vista towards the end of the trek.
Raptor Watching: A Spectacle of Nature
The most intense viewing periods are typically in September and October. Visitors can enhance their raptor spotting experience by bringing binoculars and a field guide. The North Lookout is a particularly popular vantage point, offering expansive views where migrating birds of prey can be seen soaring on thermal updrafts.
The sanctuary's knowledgeable staff and volunteers are often on hand to help identify different species and share fascinating facts about their behavior. Beyond the fall migration, the sanctuary also offers opportunities to see resident raptors and experience a secondary migration in the spring. The educational programs at the Visitor Center further enrich the understanding of these magnificent birds and their ecological importance.
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