Shenandoah National Park is a treasure trove of forested trails, little-known waterfalls, and hidden overlooks just waiting to be discovered. There’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular parks in the U.S., and visitors from all over make a point of spending time in Shenandoah. Even Virginia locals are finding new ways to explore the park with its 500 miles of hiking trails. Today’s feature adventure is one that will take you to the summit of the highest peak in Shenandoah: Hawksbill. Afterward, we’ll venture towards a namesake restaurant with lots of small-town charm.

Things to note:

  • Hawksbill Mountain is in Shenandoah National Park‘s Central District
  • There is a park entrance fee of $30
  • The distance between Hawksbill Summit and Hawksbill Diner is approximately 45 minutes, and most of the driving time will be on Skyline Drive
  • Hawksbill Diner is open for breakfast and lunch only, closing at 2:00 p.m. each day

 

Today's hike is one that will lead us to the top of Hawksbill Mountain, the tallest point in Shenandoah, standing 4,050 feet above sea level.
skiserge1 / Getty Images
To reach the summit, you'll want to park at the Hawksbill Gap Parking Area (mile 45.5) and take a short connector trail to the Appalachian Trail.
Micah Eckhaus / AllTrails
Take the A.T. south until you see the trail post for the Salamander Trail. Here, you'll go left on the blue-blazed Salamander Trail. At the next trail junction, you'll turn left onto the Upper Hawksbill Trail.
At this point, you'll notice a short trail leading to the viewing platform. As you can see, the panoramic views of Shenandoah are absolutely enchanting, especially at sunset.
Erika Burns / AllTrails
Hawksbill Summit is equally popular among hikers and bird-watchers. Some beautiful birds that you can spot from this high vantage point include Peregrine Falcons, red-tailed hawks, and black-capped chickadees.
Also at the summit is Byrd's Nest Shelter, which was built as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. Today, it's a popular place for Appalachian Trail hikers to rest.
flor medrano / AllTrails

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After enjoying the view, you'll continue the loop by taking the blue-blazed Lower Hawksbill Trail back to the parking area. Our next stop: dinner!
Pete Peters / AllTrails
After a scenic drive through the park and to the town of Stanley, Virginia, you'll arrive at our next stop: Hawksbill Diner.
Cindy Fournier / Google
Step inside and you'll find a cozy, classically-decorated space that feels a bit like you've traveled back in time.
Beecher Bowers / Google
Wondering what to order? You can't go wrong with a classic cheeseburger and curly fries!
chris mac / Google
After all, you'll have worked up quite an appetite after your Shenandoah National Park hiking adventure.

What are your thoughts on this Hawksbill-themed day trip in Virginia? Is this an area of the state that you’ve explored recently? If so, feel free to share your experiences with us!

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the area, we’d recommend checking out Shadow Mountain Escape. It’s the perfect couples’ retreat for a Shenandoah National Park adventure!

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Hawksbill Mountain, Hawksbill Mtn, Virginia 22835, USA