Rockfish Gap Hawk Watch is one of over 200 hawk watch sites in North America who primary mission is to collect raptor identification and count data during fall migration in a rigorous fashion. More than 20,000 raptors migrate through Rockfish Gap each fall including hawks, falcons, eagles, osprey, kites, and harriers. We are unique in that our site is very easily accessible, with no hiking or climbing necessary.
A small group of local volunteers man the watch from Aug 15 Nov 30. Although migrating hawks can be see any day, peak migration occurs in the last two weeks of September and first two weeks of October. During this time we can see as many as 10,000 hawks on a single day.
Our hawk watch is conducted on the grounds of the Inn at Afton, just off highway 64 at exit 99 just east of Waynesboro, VA. Our location provides a 180 degree panoramic view of Rockfish Gap, the Shenandoah Valley to the west, and the Piedmont Region to the east. We are family-friendly and welcome all visitors (who can participate by helping to spot the hawks or just sit back and observe). If you visit, bring a lawn chair or blanket, food/drink, hat, sunscreen and binoculars. Visit our website for more information:www.rockfishgaphawkwatch.org.
