Hawk Rock Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views

This loop can be done in either direction or some visitors may choose to do the hike as an out-and-back using the AT section (western half of the loop) for the majority of the trek, avoiding the steepest and rockiest sections along the slopes of the unmarked Hawk Rock Trail.

From the parking area off Inn Road near Sherman's Creek, find the Parking Access trail to connect to the white-blazed AT: Mountain Club of Maryland - North (PA) section. Stay left here to follow the loop clockwise, which turns the steepest section into a climb, which is easier for most than going down.

When the AT begins to descend to the left (east), find the start of the Hawk Rock Trail heading to the right up steep and loose sections.

This sustained climb tops out around the half-mile mark where it levels off for the traverse across the top of the ridge toward the top of the namesake Hawk Rock and rewarding views back along the AT around 1.1 miles.

The return starts somewhat steeply along the AT but is levels out a bit for a nice, gradual cool-down toward the Parking Access trail to the starting point.