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A short and steep loop with a beautiful, rewarding view from the top.


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Map Key

1.9

Miles

3.1

KM

Loop

1,129' 344 m

High

381' 116 m

Low

749' 228 m

Up

745' 227 m

Down

15%

Avg Grade (8°)

52%

Max Grade (28°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views

Overview

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.

Description

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.

Shared By:

Zander Göpfert

Trail Ratings

  4.3 from 3 votes

#1

in Duncannon

#3501

Overall
  4.3 from 3 votes
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Recommended Route Rankings

#1

in Duncannon

#60

in Pennsylvania

#3,501

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Photos

Hiking the Hawk Rock Loop via the Appalachian Trail.
Oct 27, 2023 near Duncannon, PA
Trailhead to connect to AT.
May 21, 2016 near Duncannon, PA

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Check-Ins

Mar 26, 2024
Johnny Walker
Mar 8, 2024
J H
Did the loop clockwise. Hard to find the uphill right turn off the AT to the unmarked Hawk Rock Trail, and very steep with several big trees down.
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