Peters Mountain is a 52-mile mountain that runs along the boundary of Virginia and West Virginia. And perched 3,812 feet up on Peters Mountain in Monroe County, West Virginia, is an old fire tower. The Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory boasts one of the best views in the whole state. You have to work a little for it, though!
Off the beaten path in Monroe County, West Virginia near the towns of Gap Mills and Union, an old fire observation tower stands perched on a rugged cliff.
The Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory, which was originally built as a fire tower but is now used for bird-watching (specifically raptors, as the name suggests), offers stunning views for miles and miles in all directions.
To reach this stunning vantage point, take Limestone Hill Road, accessible from Gap Mills or Union or Waiteville, to a small, well-marked gravel parking lot set at the top of a saddle in the ridge.
From the parking lot, head up: you'll be following the Allegheny Trail (marked with yellow blazes) for most of a mile before it splits toward the observatory for a final few hundred yards. This trail starts out steep, but it levels off once you reach the top of the ridge. It's a narrow, boulder-strewn path that makes for a beautiful hike, but watch your footing!
You can slowly circle the building via the wrap-around porch or you can enter the tower, throw open the windows, and enjoy the view from the comfort of a wooden bench.
Check inside the fire tower for a laminated copy of these labeled peaks, as well as other helpful information about raptors, the Allegheny Trail, the history of the tower, and more.
Another treat about this hike is that there's no wrong season to tackle it, as long as you can safely navigate the road to the parking lot. It's as pretty in the winter as the summer!
There is an outhouse near the observatory, and masks are requested when on the tower. To learn more about Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory, visit their Facebook page here. You can map the location on Google Maps here.
Did you know Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory is just one of many old fire towers left in West Virginia? Explore a few more here.
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