The Cumberland Gap hawk watch site is located on the northern escarpment on top of what locals refer to as "Lovers Leap". It is located within Wills Mountain State Park on the western side of Cumberland Maryland at at elevation of about 1200'. The watch is accessed by way of Wills Mountain road. The road is a private road that is owned and maintained by The Artmor Plastics Corp. located near the top of the mountain, but outside the state park. You are allowed to use this private road but beware that the gate may be locked by Artmor at any time. If planning to stay a short while, driving to the top poses no problem. If you plan to stay for a longer duration then I would recommend walking up the road to the watch site. The hike is all uphill, but very doable even for those of minimal fitness capabilities. The walk up will take the average person 25-30 minutes at a slow pace and taking a few minutes rest. After doing the walk enough times it usually takes about 15min. The walk is very enjoyable with great views of Cumberland improving as you gain elevation.
Here are the general directions:
Coming East on route 40 towards Cumberland. After passing under "Lover's Leap" through the gap. Veer left at the first light onto Henderson. At the first light on Henderson, turn left onto Pear. Go up Pear 1 block to Columbia Ave. Turn left onto Columbia. Follow Columbia up around a sharp right turn. Continue up the hill to the first road on your left. This is Wills Mountain Rd. You can park on the left before the red gate and walk up to the watch or drive to the top if planning on leaving before 4:00 PM. Parking is possible in several locations at the top. Don't block any gates or roadways.
Here are the general directions:
Coming East on route 40 towards Cumberland. After passing under "Lover's Leap" through the gap. Veer left at the first light onto Henderson. At the first light on Henderson, turn left onto Pear. Go up Pear 1 block to Columbia Ave. Turn left onto Columbia. Follow Columbia up around a sharp right turn. Continue up the hill to the first road on your left. This is Wills Mountain Rd. You can park on the left before the red gate and walk up to the watch or drive to the top if planning on leaving before 4:00 PM. Parking is possible in several locations at the top. Don't block any gates or roadways.
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| The sign and gate at the bottom of Wills Mountain road |
The red gate is USUALLY open Mon.-Thurs. 8:30 until 4:00
For Google directions use:
1000 Wills Mountain Road
Cumberland, MD 21502
From the red gates and sign follow the paved road about 1/2 mile to the intersection. To the left is Artmor Plastics building, to the right is a gated road with posted signs. Ahead straight (uphill) a dirt road continues. Follow the dirt road uphill 120 yards to the sharp right bend. At the bend there will be a gated grass road on your left, the dirt road continues uphill to the right. Dont take the bend in the dirt road, but continue straight onto the trail marked with the stone carin that goes into the woods. Follow this trail a short distance up to the first overlook (your first look into Cumberland Gap). Continue up the trail (right) approximately 100 yards to the watch site.
There are several possibilities for watching along the cliff band. Some offer side views as they fly across the Gap. Others position you for a direct flight overhead with spectacular up close views. There is plenty of space for all to have a great position to see the birds in flight. Many Turkey Vultures congregate in the area during most of spring, summer and fall offering up close and personal views as well as amazing examples of slope soaring techniques in the scree fields below the cliff.
Photos of the observation points
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| The "Main Site" A buttress that offers a fine 270° view |
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| Another shot of the "Main Site" |
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| Continue uphill on the trail from the Main site and you'll come to "The Living Room" Its the open field 100 yards north of the "Main Site" |
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| "The Balcony" (upper left rocks in photo) located directly behind the block building that is behind Artmor Plastics Building. Located on Artmor property. They've given their permission for us to sit and observe here as well. |
