Hiking in Virginia – there’s really nothing like it. In the Old Dominion, you have the choice between waterfront views, riverbanks, and endless mountain vistas to explore. Thousands of well-worn trails mean you’ll never run out of paths to take. Today’s feature trail, however, is all about those Blue Ridge Mountains. You’ll drive into Shenandoah National Park via Skyline Drive and embark on what might be one of the most popular trails in the park. So plan ahead, arrive early, and prepare to enjoy some of the best mountain views in the state when you hike Hawksbill Gap Loop in Virginia.
It’s no mystery why Hawksbill Gap Loop Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Shenandoah National Park. With sweeping mountain views, challenging inclines, and lovely scenery all within a relatively short loop, it makes for the perfect outing.
skiserge1 / Getty Images
Whether you decide to go clockwise or counterclockwise upon starting the trail, you’ll encounter a steep incline for the first mile.
jeff nagle / AllTrails The best place to mark is near Milepost 45.6, or the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area.
After that, however, the trail will flatten out a bit. Take time to notice the beautiful wooded surroundings, and if you’re observant, you might even spot a deer!
tatin / TripAdvisor
Before long, you’ll have reached the crown jewel of this trail: the summit.
Ty Marko / AllTrails
It’s safe to say your efforts will be well rewarded as you peer out over hundreds upon hundreds of acres of mountain views. Standing at the overlook, you’ll be enjoying views from the highest elevation in Shenandoah National Park.
Kelly McManus / AllTrails The altitude at the top of Hawksbill Summit is 4,049 feet.
Even if you hike during the winter, you’ll enjoy unparalleled beauty, with an added benefit of cool mountain air.
Weidong Tang / AllTrails
So whether you’re a hiker or just enthusiastic about mountain views, you owe yourself a trip up Hawksbill.
frwooar / Getty Images Visitors should note that there’s a fee to enter Shenandoah National Park. But the views from Skyline Drive as you’re making your way to the trailhead are worth every penny!
To learn more about the hike, visit its page on AllTrails.
skiserge1 / Getty Images
jeff nagle / AllTrails
The best place to mark is near Milepost 45.6, or the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area.
tatin / TripAdvisor
Ty Marko / AllTrails
Kelly McManus / AllTrails
The altitude at the top of Hawksbill Summit is 4,049 feet.
Weidong Tang / AllTrails
frwooar / Getty Images
Visitors should note that there’s a fee to enter Shenandoah National Park. But the views from Skyline Drive as you’re making your way to the trailhead are worth every penny!
Have you hiked Hawksbill Gap Loop in Virginia before? What was your experience like? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below! If you’re looking for more solitude on the trail, check out this little-known hike in Virginia you’re sure to love.
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Address: Upper Hawksbill Trail, Robertson, VA 22835, USA
