Hiking the Appalachian Trail and Exploring Hawk Rock Overlook

The Appalachian Trail is a popular hiking trail along the east coast. It's hiked by thousands of visitors every year from all around the world. Part of the trail passes through the small town of Duncannon located in Perry County, Pennsylvania. You'll often see trail hikers hanging out in town to grab a bite to eat or to spend the night at the Doyle hotel...a favorite spot with hikers.

Located right outside of town you'll find Hawk Rock which is a trail that leads up and down the mountain. The trail is a little over 1 1/2 miles in length and is a moderate hike. Elevation is approximately 685 feet. The best time to visit the trail is during the months of March through October when the weather is most cooperative. You'll want to wear comfortable walking shoes, bring along plenty of bottled water, snacks, bug spray and sunscreen for your journey.

During the springtime you'll see the trees budding with new fauna, wildflowers growing along the trail, birds singing in the trees and local wildlife enjoying the warmth of springtime. During the fall season you'll be treated to an explosion of color during the peak of the Fall Foliage season.

Hiking up to Hawk Rock takes more energy than coming down. We've hiked up several times over the past two decades and each time we do it...it gets a little harder due to our age. We're not spring chickens anymore! My wife and I are both in our 50's and take our time hiking up and coming back down.

At the top you'll find Hawk Rock Overlook and be treated to some gorgeous views of the valley, the Susquehanna River and of the small town Duncannon which is located nearby at the base of the mountain. The views are breathtaking and you can capture some beautiful photos of the surrounding area on good weather days.

If you would like to visit Hawk Rock you can check out the Landmark page over on Facebook to learn more about it and to read comments from other visitors. It's classified as a historical site along the Appalachian Trail. It's a popular with locals and with visitors who are hiking the trail.