With an elevation of 2102 ft, this site is popular among hawk-watchers who congregate in the fall with lawn chairs at hand to watch the spectacular flight of migrating hawks. This is a site where volunteers annually count migrants from mid-August to December. In addition to Turkey and Black Vulture, 14 raptor species can be seen migrating here including accipiters (Sharp-shinned, Cooper's and Goshawk), hawks (Broad-winged, Red-shouldered, Red-tailed and Rough-legged), falcons (Peregrine, American Kestrel and Merlin), Northern Harrier, Osprey, and eagles (Bald and Golden). In addition to raptors, large numbers of other migrants pass through here in large numbers including songbirds, Common Nighthawk, swallows, Chimney Swift, and Red-headed Woodpecker. Even butterflies and dragonflies are observed here in migratory flight.
Visit the official Rockfish Gap Hawkwatch website to learn more!
Accessibility: Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch is located on the grounds of the Inn at Afton, on the hill above where highway 64, Rt 250, Skyline Drive, and Blue Ridge Parkway all converge. The hawkwatch is conducted from the parking lot or the north-facing sidewalk. There are no amenities available on site, but a couple hundred yards down the road is the Waynesboro Visitor Center that has a restroom available.
eBird Hotspot: Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch
—Vic Laubach