There’s no better place to watch the sunset than from the top of Shenandoah’s highest mountain. Hawksbill Summit provides beautiful views of Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

We finished our day in Shenandoah with a beautiful sunset hike up to Hawksbill Summit. We took the steepest route to the top (and got a little lost along the way) but the views made it worth the trek! What’s more magical than watching sunbeams fall over the Shenandoah Valley? 

This guide details three different ways to hike Hawksbill Summit. Check out these trails on your next Shenandoah adventure! 

 

Navigating Shenandoah National Park

Skyline Drive runs through Shenandoah, making it easy to find hikes along the way. Locate most trailheads by their nearest Skyline Drive mile marker. 

Shenandoah National Park requires an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle. Buy an entrance pass online or at any of the entrance stations. Veterans and military members can visit for free with an annual Military Pass.

 

Hawksbill Summit via Upper Hawksbill

2.1 mile out & back | 520 ft. elevation gain

If you’re looking for the easiest route to the summit, look no further! The Upper Hawksbill Trail is an easy 2.1 mile out & back trail with only 520 ft. elevation gain. Not a tough route to climb the tallest mountain in Shenandoah! 

Find the trailhead at the Upper Hawksbill Parking Area (Skyline Drive mile 46.5). Follow the trail to the overlook, then retrace your steps back to the parking lot. 

 

Hawksbill Summit via Lower Hawksbill

1.7 mile out & back | 690 ft. elevation gain

For the shortest (but steepest) route to the peak, take the Lower Hawksbill Trail. Though Lower Hawksbill runs less than two miles, it’s a steep trek to the top! 

Park at the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area (mile 45.5) and take the Lower Hawksbill Trail. Hike the trail all the way up to the viewing platform, then retrace your steps back to the parking lot. 

Be mindful of the trail markers when starting this trail! We weren’t paying attention and hopped on the Appalachian Trail. It wasn’t until we ran across a thru-hiker that we realized we went the wrong way. Unless you want to add on extra miles, make sure to check the trail markers! 

 

Hawksbill Loop

2.9 mile loop | 860 ft. elevation gain

Hawksbill Loop offers a moderate challenge. This 2.9 mile trail loops up to the summit with 860ft. elevation gain. 

Take the short trail to the Appalachian Trail from the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area (mile 45.5). Turn left onto the AT to head south. 

Hike along the AT south to the Salamander Trail post. Take the blue-blazed Salamander Trail to the next trail junction. From there, turn left onto the Upper Hawksbill Trail. 

Take the blue-blazed Lower Hawksbill Trail to return to the parking lot. 

 

Weather & Other Notes

All hikes to the summit allow dogs, though some areas require a leash. 

The Hawksbill Gap Parking Area only holds a few cars, so make sure to arrive early (or late) to enjoy these views! We hiked this trail on a weekday evening and still found a spot. 

Hawksbill Summit makes for the perfect sunset hike! It’s short enough that you can enjoy most of the sunset even if you don’t like hiking in the dark. The way back goes faster than the way up! 

You should see a shelter at the top of the trail. Make sure to head past the shelter all the way to the viewing platform for the best view. 

As always, please follow Leave No Trace guidelines when visiting the outdoors.

What’s your favorite hike in Shenandoah? Let me know in the comments below! 

 

Disclaimer: Only YOU know your limits and experience level. Please approach these hikes with caution. Refer to our Disclaimer for more information.