Autumn Migration Hawkwatch

Autumn Migration Hawkwatch

Visitors are invited to Hawk Mountain to view the annual Autumn Migration Hawkwatch, which takes place daily from August 15 through December 15. Visitors can join the Sanctuary counters as they monitor the southbound raptor migration from the Sanctuary’s famous North Lookout. Trail fees apply for non-members: $10 for adults, $7 for seniors, and $5 for children ages 6-12; ages 5 and younger are free. Members are admitted free year-round.

Throughout the count, Sanctuary staff, trainees, and volunteers will be stationed at the lookouts to help visitors spot and identify raptors, including broad-winged hawks, kestrels, vultures, ospreys, bald eagles, and more. An average of 18,000 raptors pass the Sanctuary each autumn. For raptor enthusiasts and those who cannot make it to Hawk Mountain, daily counts are posted throughout the season at hawkmountain.org/count.

Visitors are welcome to spend the day at the North Lookout to enjoy incredible views as the raptor migrants pass overhead. Come equipped with binoculars and a full daypack to make the most of the day. Visitors with small children or limited mobility may prefer the nearby South Lookout, which can be accessed via the ADA accessible Silhouette Trail.