Did You Know There's A Famous Hawk Watching Site In Pennsylvania?
By Beth Price-Williams|Published May 24, 2023
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Beth Price-Williams
Author
A professional writer for more than two decades, Beth has lived in nearly a dozen states – from Missouri and Virginia to Connecticut and Vermont – and Toronto, Canada. In addition to traveling extensively in the U.S. and the U.K., she has a BA in Journalism from Point Park University (PA), a MA in Holocaust & Genocide Studies from Stockton University (NJ), and a Master of Professional Writing from Chatham University (PA). A writer and editor for Only In Your State since 2016, Beth grew up in and currently lives outside of Pittsburgh and when she’s not writing or hanging out with her bunnies, budgies, and chinchilla, she and her daughter are out chasing waterfalls.
Living in Pennsylvania means we’re always discovering new places, including natural wonders that are sure to leave us in awe. Take Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch as an example. While locals and avid birdwatchers may be familiar with this natural attraction in Landisburg, Pennsylvania, some may not have heard of it yet. No matter where you live, it’s well worth the drive to visit this unique Pennsylvania spot.
Whether you enjoy bird watching or seek out sensational views, you’ll find both at Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch in Landisburg, around a 15-minute drive from Carlisle.
During the fall migration which runs from August 1 through December 31, as many as 26,000 raptors have been counted passing through as they travel south.
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While fall is the prime time to visit the rock outcrops to see the migrating raptors, you’ll be treated to gorgeous views all year long. And the rocks themselves, which date back more than 400 million years, are a natural wonder.
Two short trails lead to the overlook from the parking lot. After a short walk, you’ll come to a fork in the trail which allows you to go left or right with both taking you to the overlook.
At the parking lot, you’ll find the lone portable bathroom at Waggoner’s Gap. Be sure to bring water, but remember to take out whatever you bring with you.
Follow the path going right for an easier hike. It’s longer than the trail to the left but it isn’t as steep, and you’ll pass informational placards about raptors along the way.
If you visit during the autumn, be sure to dress warmly as the weather on the top of the rocks can be quite chilly. Make sure you always bring a blanket or a pillow on which to sit, as it can get uncomfortable sitting on the rocks for long periods.
Are you as amazed as I am that, even if we’ve lived here our entire lives, we still discover new gems like this hawk-watching outcrop? Have you been to Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch, a natural attraction in Landisburg, Pennsylvania? Share your experience in the comments! Be sure to also plan a visit to nearby Carlisle, the best day trip destination in Pennsylvania.
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