Watch for Hawks at the Mills River Overlook

Enjoying Bird Watching on the Parkway

NPS Photo / Laura White

Birds of prey, or raptors, are an awe-inspiring sight year round. But when they gather in the dozens or hundreds to migrate, hawks and other raptors can turn an ordinary fall day into the bird watching experience of a lifetime.

The fall color change isn’t the only epic autumn activity that nature has to offer on the Blue Ridge Parkway. September through October is hopping with hawks and other migrating birds of prey like falcons, eagles, and vultures. Why? They are heading south for the winter where food is more abundant. Visitors can see these raptors “kettle”, which means they will soar in slow, skyward circles. The birds are catching a lift on “thermals”. When hot air rises from the ground in columns, a smart hawk will stretch its wings and use the thermal like an elevator to gain height before continuing its journey. It’s a truly wild sight, and the Mills River Overlook is one of the better places on the Parkway to get a glimpse.

Watching for raptors in the fall can be both relaxing and exciting at the same time. Imagine a clear, slightly chilly mid-morning. The view from the overlook is peaceful, until a sudden shriek comes from high overhead. Turning, a group of hawks can be seen wheeling upwards, riding the rising air. As they turn out to continue their flight south, other birds are joining them. It certainly beats the fall color for action!

Details

Activity

Birdwatching

Watching the hawk migration is a self-guided activity. Binoculars, identification books, and chairs are optional for a casual stop and highly recommended for a longer stay. Visitors planning to observe for extended periods of time are strongly encouraged to use sun protection and stay hydrated.

Age(s)

Very young children may not want to stay still for long stretches of hawk observation. Visitors should use their best judgement for individual children.

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets must always be on a leash no longer than 6 feet while visiting the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Mills River Overlook, Milepost 404.5

Reservations

No

Season

Fall

The best time of year to observe migrating hawks on the Parkway tends to be the last two weeks in September and the first week in October. Raptors may certainly be seen before or after that time frame, but those three weeks are usually when there is the most activity.

Time of Day

Day

Unlike other types of bird and wildlife watching, early in the morning is not the best time to view raptors. They need some time for the day to warm up so they can ride those thermals. Mid-morning through mid- to late afternoon tends to be the best time to see them.

Accessibility Information

Mills River Overlook is a paved overlook with an open, expansive view. There is a single step up to a paved, level sidewalk. Hawk watching can be done from a vehicle, from the sidewalk, or from a grassy area adjacent to the overlook.