Call your nature buddies and hit the road for the Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch on October 19th!

PVAS Host: Roy Boyle/the Potomac Valley Master Naturalist Continuing Education Committee

This is a free/donation-based program. All ages are welcome, though youth must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required and limited to 25 participants.

PVMN Continuing Education Credit Eligible

During the fall season, thousands of hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey use the mountain and the wind to soar south for the winter, passing this location. We will meet at Waggoner’s Gap Hawk Watch near Carlisle, PA at 9:30 AM. Waggoner’s Gap is one of the oldest existing hawk watches that collects data on hawk migration. You’ll be able to watch for birds as long as you want and leave when you need to. The hawk watch is usually open from 9AM – 5PM during peak migration. Directions will be provided to registered participants before the event.

A short introduction to observation skills, identification skills and migration knowledge will take place at the watch. Some assistance observing and identifying the birds will be available from fellow PVMN and PVAS members. Weather may restrict or cancel this trip, so stay tuned after signing up for important updates.

Waggoner’s Gap is approximately 1.5 hours from Shepherdstown, WV.

• Walking Distance: The trail is dirt and has some elevation changes. The observation site is rocky.
• Pace/Activities: Leisurely (meandering, many breaks to stop and observe)
• Exposure: Be prepared for lots of sun/exposure.
• Terrain: Hard ground/hiking trail in some areas, mowed grass in other areas. Depending on the path the group chooses to take, you can expect some elevation gain. Visitors should prepare for a short hike to the watch.
• Parking/Where to Meet: Meet at the parking area. The trip leader will have a “PVMN” sign.
• What to Bring: Equipment needed includes warm, layered clothing, sturdy shoes for rocky terrain, water, snacks, and binoculars. A spotting scope would be useful. A packed lunch will make your stay more enjoyable and help lengthen your stay on the mountain.  Wear clothing appropriate for October at high elevations. Spotting scopes are helpful but not necessary.

Register Here!

Registration will remain open until 11:55 pm on Sunday, October 12.

Read our pricing structure & policies.

About our Host: Roy is a Potomac Valley Master Naturalist and chair of the PVMN Continuing Education Committee. He is also a middle school science teacher.

Photo credit: Pennsylvania Audubon