Tourist attraction

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton offers a range of scenic trails for all abilities, renowned for breathtaking views and abundant wildlife sightings. Visitors appreciate the friendly staff, educational programs, and well-maintained facilities, making it a worthwhile destination for nature enthusiasts.

4.8(1768)

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Plan your visit to Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

When: Open year-round. Visitor Center and trails are open daily, 9 AM - 5 PM. Hawk Mountain is CLOSED on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, and New Year's Day, and closes at 1 PM on the day before Thanksgiving and New Year's Eve. Hiking is only allowed from dawn to dusk, and trails close at dusk. Trails are not winter maintained. Some trails close on deer hunting days in late fall and winter; the sanctuary posts the dates each season.
Schedule: Autumn Migration Hawk Count: daily from August 15 through December 15, counted from North Lookout. Spring count: April through mid May. Most migrating hawks are seen between 8 AM and 5 PM; on days without strong wind, 9:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:30 to 4 PM are the better windows. Weekend programs run Saturdays and Sundays during the spring and autumn migration seasons and on Memorial Day, Labor Day and Columbus Day. Fall times: Raptors Up Close at 10:15 AM, 12 PM and 2:15 PM (Amphitheater or Visitor Center Gallery); Name That Raptor at 10 AM and 2 PM (Outdoor Amphitheater); How We Study Migrating Raptors, open display 9 AM to 3 PM with programs at 10 AM and 12 PM (South Lookout). Autumn Lecture Series talks are free with no registration, in the Visitor Center Gallery at 5 PM unless noted.
Admission: Trail fees for non-members: Adults $10, Seniors (65+) $7, Children (6-12) $5, Children 5 and under FREE. Members are always FREE and show a membership card at the trailhead gate. The fee is the same year round; online trail passes are sold by quarter (Apr-Jun, Jul-Sep, Oct-Dec) through Ticketleap, and online ticket holders bring a printed copy to the gate or check in at the Visitor Center if no staff is at the gate. Non-members can also pay inside the Visitor Center. A day's trail pass can be turned into a membership by paying the difference. The trail fee covers all trails; the site lists no separate rate or exception for the Silhouette Trail. Weekend programs and the Autumn Lecture Series are free with the trail fee or membership.
Parking: The sanctuary says its parking lot fills quickly on busy October weekends and parking cannot be guaranteed then; it recommends a weekday visit or arriving as early as possible. Accessible van parking is at the Amphitheater and accessible spaces are provided in all other lots. There is no public transportation to the sanctuary and staff cannot offer rides. Parking cost is not stated.
Time to plan: A walk to North Lookout takes at least an hour, usually longer if you stop at the overlooks along the way; the sanctuary says to double that time when hiking with children. The River of Rocks loop takes 3 to 4 hours.
Accessibility: An accessible trail links the parking area to the Amphitheater, the Visitor Center, the Native Habitat Garden and the ADA accessible Silhouette Trail, which ends at South Lookout. The Silhouette Trail is 900 feet long with a grade under 8.3 percent, is six feet wide, and has benches with pull bars every 100 feet. South Lookout has a smooth, flat viewing area with one bench with a pull bar and can be reached by motorized wheelchairs, or manual wheelchairs with assistance. Trailside restrooms near the gate are ADA compliant. The Visitor Center main floor and an accessible restroom stall are accessible, and the Native Habitat Garden has a wheelchair-accessible brick loop. An all-terrain scooter can be signed out at no cost from the Visitor Center, a golf cart may be available by advance request, and Braille garden guides can be borrowed. The sanctuary suggests South Lookout for visitors with small children or limited mobility during the hawk watch. Accessible parking is in every lot, with van parking at the Amphitheater.
Dogs: No pets, including small pets on leashes, are allowed on the trails. Service animals as defined by the ADA are permitted in all public areas; comfort, therapy, companion and emotional support animals are not. Leashed dogs can be walked on the Appalachian Trail, about 1.5 miles east of the Visitor Center on Hawk Mountain Rd (look for the AT sign).
Know before you go: Enter the trails at the trailhead gate across Hawk Mountain Road from the Visitor Center; hikers who come in from the Appalachian Trail or another outside route must exit through the front gate and pay. Pay in the Visitor Center or buy a pass online in advance. Carry a daypack with water, snacks, binoculars (rentals are available at the Visitor Center), a camera, and layers; the top of the mountain is typically 10 degrees cooler, so wear a hat and sunscreen on sunny days and light, warm layers in autumn and winter. All trails except the walk to South Lookout are rocky with uneven footing, so wear boots or sturdy shoes; wet leaves make trails slick in late October and November. It is a carry-in, carry-out sanctuary with no trash cans. No smoking, radios, alcohol, hammocks, bikes, drones, camping or fires, and stay on the trails. Hawk flights are best one to two days after a cold front on northwest winds, and the busiest days are October weekends. In winter assume icy conditions and bring cleats and poles.

Checked on September 7, 2026 against the official site. Hours and prices change; confirm before a long drive.

What to do at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

North Lookout, reached by the Lookout Trail (a 300-foot rise with rock scrambling over boulders at the top), where counters are stationed daily from August 15 through December 15
The autumn raptor migration: broad-winged hawks peak in mid September, the greatest variety of species passes in October, and one-day counts can top 3,000 birds
South Lookout, 175 yards from the entrance gate on a groomed path above the River of Rocks boulder field, with an observer-interpreter stationed daily September through early November
The Silhouette Trail, a 900-foot wheelchair-accessible route to South Lookout lined with life-size raptor silhouettes and benches every 100 feet
Longer loops for experienced hikers: the Inner Loop (3 miles), River of Rocks Loop (4.5 miles) and Outer Loop (5.5 miles), plus the Skyline Trail out to the Appalachian Trail
Free weekend programs in spring and fall, including Raptors Up Close (live hawks and owls), Name That Raptor and How We Study Migrating Raptors, and the free Autumn Lecture Series in the Visitor Center Gallery

Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a private, member-supported, non-profit wildlife sanctuary on the Kittatinny Ridge at 1700 Hawk Mountain Rd in Kempton. It is not a state or national park. Its 2,500 acres of protected forest hold more than 8 miles of trails and a series of rock lookouts, and trail fees and membership dues pay for its raptor research, conservation training and education programs.

The main reason we go is the autumn hawk watch. The sanctuary has counted migrating raptors here since 1934, and the count runs every day from August 15 through December 15. Staff, trainees and volunteers sit at the lookouts to help visitors pick out hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures. Around 18,000 raptors pass each fall. Broad-winged hawks peak in mid September, the widest mix of species shows up in October, and the daily tally is posted online at hawkmountain.org/count.

The rest of the year we come to hike and to watch birds at the feeders. Most trails are rocky and ungraded. The Lookout Trail climbs about 300 feet to North Lookout, and longer loops run 3 to 5.5 miles. The 900-foot Silhouette Trail is wheelchair accessible and ends at South Lookout. The Visitor Center is open year round with exhibits, a bird feeder watch station and the Mountain Bookstore, and free weekend programs with live raptors run on Saturdays and Sundays during the spring and fall migrations.

What people love about Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

River of Rocks Trail

This unique rocky corridor offers a memorable scrambly challenge and rewarding panoramic views that many visitors single out.

“The River of Rocks is incredible to see in person and the vistas from the mountain are well worth the hike.”

“River of Rocks trail and the Golden Eagle trail are worth the hike.”

Key Themes from Reviews of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Trails Variety & Difficulty

Mixed

Customers appreciate the wide range of trail options but frequently warn that many routes include rocky scrambles and steep sections requiring good footwear and fitness.

“The trails are from easy to difficult, so plan accordingly!”

“River of rocks loop…7hr challenge with some rock scrambles.”

About Hawk Mountain Sanctuary

Discover Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Kempton, PA

Nestled in the rolling hills of Kempton, Pennsylvania, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is a premier non-profit nature preserve, volunteer organization, and hiking area that doubles as a beloved tourist attraction. Established to conserve raptor habitat and raise public awareness of ornithology, this association-friendly sanctuary invites families, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts to explore over 12 miles of trails, experience world-class wildlife viewing, and engage with passionate staff and volunteers dedicated to environmental education.

A Trail System for Every Adventurer

Whether you’re seeking a casual stroll or an all-day summit challenge, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary delivers a variety of trail options. Beginners and wheelchair users can enjoy accessible, paved routes to scenic overlooks, while seasoned hikers will relish steeper backcountry paths. Many routes feature rocky scrambles, steep ascents, and the famed River of Rocks corridor, so sturdy footwear and a moderate level of fitness are recommended. As one visitor advised, “The trails are from easy to difficult, so plan accordingly!”—a sentiment echoed by those tackling the seven-hour River of Rocks loop.

Accessible & Inclusive Options

Inclusivity is woven into the Sanctuary’s design. A paved, wheelchair-friendly trail leads to a breathtaking vista platform, ensuring guests of differing abilities can share in the panoramic beauty. For visitors seeking more rigorous terrain, multi-mile loops provide both variety and solitude. This thoughtful balance means everyone—from families with young children to avid trail runners—can chart their own path through forests, fields, and rocky outcrops.

Breathtaking Scenic Views & Wildlife Encounters

One of Hawk Mountain Sanctuary’s crowning achievements is its unrivaled lookout vantage points. From the North Lookout to the South Lookout, visitors witness sweeping vistas of the Appalachian Ridge and seasonal spectacles like fall foliage that ignites the horizon. Bird watchers are treated to close encounters with hawks, eagles, falcons, and a host of migratory species passing overhead. “Spectacular views along the way! So many hawks and even eagles were sighted!” raves one nature enthusiast, capturing the essence of what makes Hawk Mountain a must-visit.

Pristine Trail Maintenance & Clear Signage

Navigating the Sanctuary is straightforward, thanks to meticulously maintained paths and a reliable color-coded blaze system. Guests consistently praise the clear signage that marks junctions, trail distances, and points of interest. One hiker shared, “Trails are well marked with colored blazes… no way to get lost here.” Regular volunteer workdays help keep undergrowth trimmed and footpaths safe, underscoring the organization’s commitment to visitor safety and environmental stewardship.

Visitor Center & Amenities: Education & Comfort Combined

Your journey begins at the modern Visitor Center, a hub for interactive exhibits on raptor ecology, migration, and local history. Educational displays—featuring hands-on items, models, and interpretive panels—soak up curious minds, while a well-stocked gift shop offers nature-themed keepsakes and field guides. Clean restrooms are conveniently located in the center and at a charming treehouse near the North Lookout. “The visitor’s center has some interesting exhibits and a gift shop,” notes one family, underscoring the extra dimension that these amenities bring.

Ranger-Led Sessions & Volunteer Engagement

At Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, rangers and volunteers are more than helpful—they’re storytellers and educators who deepen your appreciation for the natural world. Whether leading a one-hour migration talk or offering spot-on safety tips for icy rocks, their enthusiasm shines through. “Chatted with a ranger who cautioned me that there was ice between the rocks… very grateful for the ‘heads-up,’” recounts a thankful hiker. These personalized interactions foster a warm, community-minded atmosphere that extends beyond any single visit.

Affordable Admission & Exceptional Value

For just $10 per adult, visitors gain full access to trails, lookouts, and educational programming—a fee many deem a bargain given the Sanctuary’s offerings. Families, students, and seniors enjoy discounted rates, and membership packages unlock additional benefits throughout the year. “Absolutely worth the admission fee!” exclaims one guest, capturing the widespread sentiment that the modest price supports critical conservation work and results in an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Planning Your Visit: Parking & Peak Season Tips

The Sanctuary’s parking area accommodates cars and larger vehicles, but weekend and midday visits during the height of migration can fill spaces quickly. Early arrivals are rewarded with quieter trails and prime viewing spots. “Go early! We arrived at 8:30 am… by noon it was packed,” advises one seasoned explorer. To avoid the crowds, consider weekday hikes, harness the expertise of ranger-led walks, or volunteer for a trail maintenance shift.

Spotlight: The River of Rocks Trail

A standout among Hawk Mountain’s many paths is the River of Rocks Trail, a geological marvel shaped by centuries of glacial movement. Stepping through this rocky corridor feels like traversing a natural sculpture garden, complete with panoramic overlooks that stretch across ridgelines. Visitors often cite this trail as the highlight of their stay: “The River of Rocks is incredible to see in person and the vistas from the mountain are well worth the hike!”

Join the Migration Movement

Whether you’re a local seeking a weekend escape or a traveler drawn by the allure of raptor migrations, Hawk Mountain Sanctuary promises a blend of exhilarating hikes, educational enrichment, and a welcoming community of nature advocates. Lace up your boots, camera in hand, and discover why this non-profit organization in Kempton, PA, remains a cherished destination for generations of outdoor enthusiasts. Plan your visit today and soar into a world where conservation and adventure meet.

Description

Nonprofit, 2,600-acre wild bird sanctuary since 1934 featuring a visitor center, trails & overlooks.