Hawksbill Summit from Stony Man via the AT

Last month I led a hike along the AT from the Pinnacles Picnic Area to Stony Man Mountain and back. Picking up roughly where that hike left off, this hike starts at the Stony Man Trailhead parking area, continues south on the AT for just over 4 miles until we fork left on the Salamander Trail and climb another mile to Hawksbill Summit where we'll take in the views and have our lunch break. After our lunch break, we'll descend the Lower Hawksbill Trail to Hawksbill Gap where we'll rejoin the AT and double back to our starting point.

The total round-trip distance is just over 9 miles, and the elevation gain is about 1,800 feet. It is important to be aware of the elevation gain and to be prepared for some rocky and strenuous sections of the trail.

• Distance: 9.3 miles
• Elevation gain: 1,800 feet
• Pace: ~2.5 miles/hour
• Difficulty: Strenuous (hiking difficulty scale)
• Start time: 9:30 a.m.
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Hike map: https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/hawksbill-summit-from-stony-man-via-the-at-c8fbbc8
• Trailhead parking: Stony Man Trailhead Parking (Skyline Drive mile 41.7)
• Parking coordinates: 38.593170, -78.375969

What to bring

Make sure your emergency contact information is in your pack. Bring backpack, hiking poles, food, water, sunscreen, insect repellent. Dress for the weather, including hat, layers, and rain gear as needed.

Dogs

Dogs are allowed on this hike subject to the following conditions:

• Must be on a physical leash no longer than 6 feet at all times
• Dogs must wear a collar with current tags at all times
• Bag your pet's waste and carry it out with you - Leave no trace

Please send a direct private message to the hike leader if you plan to bring your dog.

Park entrance / parking fees

You are required to pay an entrance fee or present your "America the Beautiful" park pass in order to access Shenandoah National Park.

Rehydration

Off the Grid, 11692 Lee Hwy, Sperryville, VA 22740

Weather

Here's a National Weather Service URL you can use to check the 7-day weather forecast at the trailhead (Stony Man Trailhead Parking).

https://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=38.593170&lon=-78.375969

In case of poor or severe weather, this hike will be postponed.

Disclaimer

Blue Mountain Hiking Club Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were hiking alone. With your RSVP you agree with the following Disclaimer / Liability Waiver.