Fall is a favorite time here in Western North Carolina, when the cooling weather provides ideal conditions for exploring all this area offers.
The changing leaves along the Blue Ridge Parkway present a feast for the eyes, and the migration sightings can provide memories to last a lifetime, particularly for hawk enthusiasts.
What should I know about Asheville's annual hawk migration?
Each year in the fall, visitors and residents in Western North Carolina have the opportunity to witness the migration of hawks, falcons, eagles and vultures as they pass overhead on their quest to find their new southern home for the winter. Early fall allows us mere mortals to glimpse these majestic birds. On the right day, spectators will likely witness more hawks in just a few hours than most see in their lifetime.
Flying along the Appalachian Mountain range eases the long journey south since the birds can coast along using the natural updrafts. Expect to see red-shouldered, broad-winged, red-tailed, Cooper’s and sharp-shinned hawks. Although keeping eyes on the sky during this time of year is almost guaranteed to render a sighting or two, locals have a few tips to improve your chances.
When is peak hawk migration?
The last two weeks in September and the first week of October tend to be the optimal time of year to observe the migrating hawks. The best opportunities for viewing are in the morning between 10 a.m. and noon, and in the afternoon between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Where are the best hawk-watching spots near Asheville?
Every year, people gather along the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Mills River Valley Overlook, located at milepost 404.5. As many as 2,500 hawks have been spotted at this location in one day. Other popular viewing posts along the parkway include Craggy Pinnacle Outlook (MP 364.1), Craggy Gardens Visitor Center (MP 364.6) and Devils’ Courthouse (MP 422.4). Chimney Rock State Park is also a popular viewing point, as many gather for the Flock to the Rock Event held each autumn.
*Chimney Rock State Park is now open 7 days a week, with timed-entry reservations 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. and gates closing at 7 p.m. Tickets must be reserved online in advance. Use NC 9 through Lake Lure for access, and note that all active Annual Passes will be extended. Visit chimneyrockpark.com for updates and FAQs.
*As of 9/15/25, Craggy Gardens Visitor Center and Craggy Pinnacle Trail have reopened. Craggy Gardens Picnic Area and sections of the Mountains to Sea Trail from the Craggy Trail Shelter to the Snowball Mountain Trail remain closed. Visit the National Park Service website for current Blue Ridge Parkway road conditions
What gear do you need to view a hawk migration?
Those hawks won’t be flying a mere few feet above your heads, so be sure to bring along proper bird viewing equipment such as binoculars. And, if you wish to capture your sightings with photos to cherish in the future, a smartphone camera probably won’t cut it. Wild Birds Unlimited offers bird watching equipment for those who may find themselves unequipped to make the most out of the fall hawk migration.
What are some guided bird-watching tours near Asheville?
There are a few opportunities to join guided bird-watching tours in the area. Ventures Birding Tours offers day trips and several migration viewings in the fall. If you want to discover more about the birds that frequent this region, the Blue Ridge Audubon Society is a wealth of information. The local Audubon Society provides resources for bird watching and leads themed bird walks regularly.
How can I enhance my bird-watching experience?
To enhance your hawk migration experience, consider participating in an unparalleled up-close encounter. Biltmore offers a fascinating 90-minute falconry adventure. Guided by a professional falconer, you will learn how to handle a trained hawk or falcon.
Each September, the naturalists at Grandfather Mountain host their annual Hawk Watch, counting and celebrating the thousands of raptors that ride the mountain's thermal uplifts on their journey south. Perched along the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge, it's one of more than 300 official Hawk Migration Association of North America count sites — and one of the most dramatic, thanks to the broad-winged hawks that stream past in swirling "kettles" of hundreds or thousands. You can take it in from Linville Peak, across the famous Mile High Swinging Bridge, or from Half Moon Overlook near the entrance. The show runs September 1–30, 2026, with the most spectacular days usually landing in the second or third week of the month, and it's included with park admission.
