Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory

Area Status: Open

A one-mile hike from the Hanging Rock parking area will take you to the raptor observatory, sitting high atop Peters Mountain on the Eastern Continental Divide. From this vantage point, visitors have a 360 degree view of the surrounding areas and an eye-level view of migrating raptors. The site is situated along a popular, southern migration path so raptor viewing is best in the autumn, but the hike and the view are great all year long.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	This site is open for recreation, however the restrooms are temporarily shut down.
Fees:	No fee
Open Season:	Open year round
Closest Towns:	Union, WV
Water:	No drinking water available available
Restroom:	No restrooms available
Operated By:	Eastern Divide Ranger District: 540-552-4641

General Information

Directions:

From Blacksburg, VA: Follow US 460 west for 17 miles. Turn right on Big Stony Creek Rd (SR 635). Go about 22 miles to Waiteville, WVA. (Note: SR 635 becomes Co. SR 17 in West Virginia.

From Waiteville, VA: Take Gap Mills Road (County Route 15) 4 miles to Allegheny Trail parking lot on your left. There is a one-mile hike up to the tower from the parking lot. Total distance from Blacksburg: 43 miles.