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Salutations all. It’s been a bit since I have done a Destinations article (blame my jeep). I wanted to go somewhere a bit further but for now I settled for something not so far away. This is another spot I go more commonly than most places. Be warned though. This one can be tough for a lot of people. I might have traumatized a friend of mine taking him on this one… I don’t see why working knees are such a big deal… Am I right? Anyways… BEHOLD HAWK ROCK!!!! Wait actually let’s start with…
A SIGN ABOUT HAWK ROCK & THE ENTRANCE
That sign gives good advice if you ask me. Respect the rock. Next picture:
A SEMI-COMFORTABLE LOCATION TO SEAT ONESELF
Why share a picture of a rock bench as my second picture? Because by the time you see this bench there is a good chance your legs burn; you are panting; & questioning your life choices. This, my friend, is likely the most beautiful rock bench you have ever seen by the time you reach it. Take a moment to rest up. You aren’t even half way.
WHAT A LOT OF THE TRAIL LOOKS LIKE
Thought I was kidding about that rock bench? The trail isn’t all like this but this gives you an idea. Feel free to ask how close you are to the top when other hikers pass on their way back. People commonly do this to those who are coming down. Seriously… They do. I’ve answered this question for people plenty of times. They usually don’t like the answer though. Weird. If you don’t give up you will reach
BEHOLD HAWK ROCK!!!!!
Right about now in the hike you are feeling like a winner (after you recover). Take in the overlook. It’s nice. You might even see some hawks (thus the name) or an eagle. I only saw an eagle once though. The hike is rough for a lot of people but it’s worth it once you are here. If you still have some energy left go…
NOT ANOTHER HILL!!
…this way. It’s nothing compared to the hike up to Hawk Rock. Skip that 1st branch off on the left and turn left when you see a small open area that looks like a camping spot. This will be mostly a gentle downhill hike until you get close to a spot I like more than the actual Hawk Rock overlook. Warning though: right before this next picture and continuing on beyond it is a VERY steep slippery trail (Loose rock and soil). If you do it; be careful; & consider going back the way you came to go back to the parking area. If you are confident (and careful) enough you can keep going and it will loop on down to the parking area.
THE SPOT I LIKE MORE THAN HAWK ROCK
This is my favorite spot on the hike. Not sure why this doesn’t get a name. If it has one I don’t know what it is. Bonus: This spot usually has less people than Hawk Rock. Easier to sit down & take in the scenery without disruption.
EVIDENCE I DID THE HIKE
And survived it… Thanks for reading!
Sidenote: Don’t eat donuts before doing this hike. It makes it harder. Don’t ask how I know that.
