Hawk Run in the McIntyre Wild Area is not as popular as some of the other runs in the area that have larger waterfalls, but is still worthwhile to explore and experience smaller waterfalls, rock formations, and boulders.
This difficult 3.2-mile out-and-back hike leads hikers off trail and up Hawk Run to explore scenic waterfalls and cascades.
As I worked my way back to the road I followed it the rest of the way which ends at a campsite that sits along Hawk Run. Once you see the campsite you will want to go to the confluence of Hawk Run and Rock Run. There is a small waterfall and if you have ever hiked the Old Loggers Path, you likely are familiar with viewing this cascade from the other side of Rock Run. Note: There is also a nice camp spot along the Old Loggers Path that looks toward this confluence and is clearly visible as you look across Rock Run.
Next you can continue upstream on Hawk Run, there is a small footbridge here (41.54510, -76.87898). On the way up the run, I crossed the bridge, but on the way back I came down the opposite side. The bridge will keep your feet dry here, but to explore Hawk Run, you will need to make multiple off-trail water crossings. Regardless of the side you hike up, be respectful of the nearby camp.
Roughly a 1.5 miles into the hike, you will notice small retaining type of wall and then a nice little waterfall. If you explore the McIntyre Wild Area, this is another reminder of the past. I do not know what the purpose was, but it is interesting to see. As you continue there is a large boulder that sits in a pool of water and then the run bends sharply as it cascades with a huge rock wall that towers over the run. This is quite the impressive spot. There is yet another small waterfall just above this.
On this hike I did not go further, but on a previous hike I did do a loop hiking up Hounds Run crossing over at the top and down Hawk Run. This is a great option for an off trail loop hike. Otherwise, just work your way back down Hawk Run to the road and back to the parking area.
Off-trail hiking: This route leads hikers off-trail and up Hawk Run.
This difficult 3.2-mile out-and-back hike leads hikers off trail and up Hawk Run to explore scenic waterfalls and cascades.
Parking:
There is a small pull off on Rock Run Road at the gated Pioneer Road just before the bridge crossing Rock Run (41.535126, -76.892637). There is additional parking on the other side of bridge.Hiking Hawk Run
Start your hike by following the gated Pioneer Road. This road leads to Hawk Run, there will be a split along the way, stay to the left. The right leads to a campsite that sits along Rock Run. A little further along, depending on the foliage and flow of water, you will be able to hear and see Yellow Dog Falls as it cascades into Rock Run. I detoured off the road to get a better view of the falls and what is one of the most beautiful spots on Rock Run in my opinion.As I worked my way back to the road I followed it the rest of the way which ends at a campsite that sits along Hawk Run. Once you see the campsite you will want to go to the confluence of Hawk Run and Rock Run. There is a small waterfall and if you have ever hiked the Old Loggers Path, you likely are familiar with viewing this cascade from the other side of Rock Run. Note: There is also a nice camp spot along the Old Loggers Path that looks toward this confluence and is clearly visible as you look across Rock Run.
Next you can continue upstream on Hawk Run, there is a small footbridge here (41.54510, -76.87898). On the way up the run, I crossed the bridge, but on the way back I came down the opposite side. The bridge will keep your feet dry here, but to explore Hawk Run, you will need to make multiple off-trail water crossings. Regardless of the side you hike up, be respectful of the nearby camp.
Roughly a 1.5 miles into the hike, you will notice small retaining type of wall and then a nice little waterfall. If you explore the McIntyre Wild Area, this is another reminder of the past. I do not know what the purpose was, but it is interesting to see. As you continue there is a large boulder that sits in a pool of water and then the run bends sharply as it cascades with a huge rock wall that towers over the run. This is quite the impressive spot. There is yet another small waterfall just above this.
On this hike I did not go further, but on a previous hike I did do a loop hiking up Hounds Run crossing over at the top and down Hawk Run. This is a great option for an off trail loop hike. Otherwise, just work your way back down Hawk Run to the road and back to the parking area.
Warning
Timber Rattlesnakes: This area is home to the Timber Rattlesnake which are rare, but can be found roaming the forest between April and October each year. Be on the lookout and give any rattlers you find plenty of space.Off-trail hiking: This route leads hikers off-trail and up Hawk Run.
