Hawk Mountain (Hatch Preserve), Waterford, Maine

The Hawk Mountain Trail is for foot traffic only and proceeds 0.7 miles south from the trailhead to the town owned Hawk Mountain lookout. Grades are gentle to moderate and the surface is mostly dirt with some loose rock. The length and relative gentleness of the ascent make this trail an excellent experience for the whole family. At the summit, broad cliffs with panoramic southerly views offer a spectacular picnicking or bird watching spot.

The trail departs directly across Hawk Mountain Road from the parking lot. The trail begins to climb immediately, with the first 0.2 miles characterized by a consistent moderate grade and gravel surface. Some larger loose rocks line the old roadbed that the trail follows; be careful of rolling stones underfoot. Soon the road narrows, becoming less rocky and more overhung by forest canopy. At the intersection 0.5 miles up the trail, bear right to continue towards the summit and cliffs. Shortly thereafter, the trail emerges onto the first summit in a large clearing which offers views to the east. Continuing into and up the other side of a steep gully, the trail then emerges onto the second summit of Hawk Mountain, which offers cliffs and views to the east, west, and south. FMI