How to Hike the Nighthawk Nest Trail

The Nighthawk Nest Trail is a lesser-known but profoundly rewarding hiking route nestled in the remote highlands of the Blackridge Wilderness, a protected area spanning over 12,000 acres of undisturbed forest, granite outcrops, and alpine meadows. Unlike more commercialized trails, the Nighthawk Nest Trail offers solitude, raw natural beauty, and a deep connection with the ecosystem that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Named after the elusive nightjar species—commonly called nighthawks—that nest in the open, rocky clearings along the path, this trail is a sanctuary for birdwatchers, geology enthusiasts, and quiet adventurers seeking an immersive wilderness experience.

Though not officially marked on most mainstream maps, the trail has gained a devoted following among seasoned hikers who value authenticity over convenience. Its popularity has grown organically through word-of-mouth and outdoor forums, making it one of the most respected hidden gems in the region. However, its remote location, minimal signage, and variable terrain demand preparation, respect for the environment, and a strong sense of navigation. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for safely and responsibly hiking the Nighthawk Nest Trail, whether you’re a first-time visitor to the wilderness or a veteran backpacker seeking a new challenge.

Understanding how to hike the Nighthawk Nest Trail isn’t just about following a path—it’s about learning to read the land, anticipate weather shifts, honor wildlife habitats, and move through nature with humility. This tutorial will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and mindset needed to complete the trail with confidence, safety, and minimal environmental impact.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Route

Before setting foot on the trail, you must understand its layout and conditions. The Nighthawk Nest Trail is approximately 8.7 miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of 1,850 feet. It begins at the Pine Ridge Trailhead, located 14 miles east of the town of Blackridge on Forest Service Road 317. The trailhead is unmarked and requires careful navigation to locate.

Start by downloading the most recent topographic map from the U.S. Forest Service website or using a trusted offline mapping app like Gaia GPS or AllTrails Pro. Look for the trail’s key landmarks: the first major bend at the 1.2-mile mark where the path crosses a dry creek bed, the granite ridge at 3.1 miles known as Sentinel Rock, and the final overlook at 4.3 miles where the nighthawk nesting grounds are visible.

Plan your hike for early morning to avoid afternoon thunderstorms, which are common between May and September. Check the local weather forecast for wind speed, humidity, and temperature fluctuations—conditions can change rapidly at this elevation. Always inform someone of your itinerary, including your expected return time.

2. Gather Essential Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable on the Nighthawk Nest Trail. Unlike maintained park trails, this route has no water stations, restrooms, or emergency call boxes. You must carry everything you need.

• Footwear: Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with aggressive tread are essential. The trail includes loose scree, moss-covered rocks, and uneven root systems.
• Navigation: A physical topographic map and compass are mandatory. GPS devices can fail or lose signal in the canyon sections. Bring extra batteries.
• Hydration: Carry at least 3 liters of water per person. There are no reliable water sources between the trailhead and the summit. A portable water filter is recommended as a backup, but do not rely on natural sources without testing.
• Food: Pack high-energy snacks: nuts, dried fruit, energy bars, and jerky. Avoid sugary items that cause energy crashes.
• Layered Clothing: Temperatures can drop 20°F within an hour after sunset. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a fleece mid-layer, and a wind- and water-resistant shell. Do not wear cotton.
• First Aid Kit: Include blister care, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Emergency Supplies: A whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, emergency blanket, and fire-starting tools (waterproof matches or a ferro rod).

3. Arrive at the Trailhead

The Pine Ridge Trailhead is not marked with signs or parking lots. To reach it, drive 14 miles east from Blackridge on Highway 17, then turn left onto Forest Service Road 317. Continue for 7.3 miles on this gravel road, which becomes increasingly rough. Park at the last safe pullout before the narrow, overgrown path begins—do not block the road. The trailhead is marked only by a single, weathered wooden post with faint carving that reads “N.H. Trail.”

Before stepping onto the trail, take a moment to observe your surroundings. Look for animal tracks, bird activity, and signs of recent weather—wet mud or fallen branches may indicate recent storms. Take a photo of your parked vehicle from multiple angles for reference on your return.

4. Begin the Ascent: First Mile

The first mile is deceptively gentle. The trail winds through a dense pine forest with minimal elevation gain. Stay on the worn path—do not cut switchbacks. This section is home to sensitive lichen beds and moss carpets that take decades to recover from foot traffic.

Watch for cairns—stacked rocks placed by previous hikers to mark the route. These are especially important after the 0.8-mile mark, where the trail forks subtly. Take the left fork; the right leads to a dead end used by deer. Look for a single red ribbon tied to a hemlock branch at eye level—this is the official marker.

At the 1.2-mile mark, you’ll cross a dry creek bed. Even if it appears dry, check for signs of recent runoff—muddy edges or displaced stones. Cross carefully on the largest, most stable rocks. Do not attempt to wade through if water is present; flash floods can occur even without rain in the immediate area.

5. Navigate the Ridge Section: Miles 1.5–3.5

This is the most technically challenging portion of the trail. The terrain becomes rocky and exposed, with steep ascents and narrow ledges. Use your hands for balance where necessary. The trail is not marked with paint or signs here—rely entirely on cairns and your map.

At 2.4 miles, you’ll encounter the first major viewpoint: a flat granite slab known as “The Bench.” This is an ideal spot to rest, hydrate, and orient yourself. Use your compass to confirm you’re heading northeast—any deviation could lead you off-course.

As you approach Sentinel Rock at 3.1 miles, the trail narrows further. This section is prone to rockfall, especially after rain. Move quickly but deliberately. Do not stop to take photos directly beneath overhanging ledges. Look up frequently to spot loose stones.

6. Reach the Summit and Nighthawk Nesting Grounds

At 4.3 miles, you’ll reach the trail’s highest point: a broad, open plateau known as the Nighthawk Nesting Grounds. This is not a destination for picnics or loud noise. The area is a protected nesting zone for the Common Nighthawk (Chordeiles minor), a species listed as “Near Threatened” by the IUCN due to habitat loss.

Observe from a distance. Do not approach the ground where birds are resting. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to watch their behavior. Nighthawks are most active at dawn and dusk, so if you arrive midday, you may see them roosting motionless on the rocks, camouflaged against the lichen. Do not attempt to feed, touch, or photograph them with flash.

Take time to appreciate the panoramic view: the valley below, distant peaks, and the patchwork of alpine meadows. This is the reward for your effort. Spend no more than 20 minutes here to minimize disturbance.

7. Descend Safely

Descending the trail is just as dangerous as ascending. Fatigue increases the risk of slips and missteps. Use trekking poles if you have them. Step deliberately on stable rocks. Avoid stepping on loose scree—it can trigger small slides.

At the 3.5-mile mark, retrace your steps through the ridge section. Double-check your cairn count. If you’re uncertain of your location, stop and consult your map. Do not guess your position.

At the 1.2-mile mark, you’ll cross the dry creek bed again. If you’re tired, consider resting here before the final forested mile. The last stretch is shaded and gentle, but it’s easy to lose focus. Stay alert.

8. Return to the Trailhead

When you reach the trailhead, do not leave immediately. Take a moment to reflect. Pack out every piece of trash, including food wrappers, tissues, and even biodegradable items like fruit peels. Leave no trace.

Before driving away, check your vehicle for any gear left behind. Review your hike log: note the time, weather, conditions, and any observations about wildlife or trail changes. This information helps future hikers and conservation efforts.

Best Practices

Follow Leave No Trace Principles

The Nighthawk Nest Trail thrives because it remains untouched by overuse. To preserve it for future generations, adhere strictly to the seven Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations, weather, and terrain. Do not rely on cell service or assumptions.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to the trail. Avoid trampling vegetation, even if it seems resilient.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole 6–8 inches deep at least 200 feet from water sources if necessary.
• Leave What You Find: Do not pick flowers, collect rocks, or carve into trees. Even small souvenirs disrupt ecosystems.
• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Fires are prohibited on the trail. Use a camp stove for cooking.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe from afar. Never feed animals. Store food securely to avoid attracting bears or rodents.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise low. Yield to uphill hikers. Let others enjoy the silence.

Timing and Seasonal Considerations

The ideal season for hiking the Nighthawk Nest Trail is late May through early October. Spring (May–June) offers wildflower blooms and active bird behavior, but snowmelt can make creek crossings hazardous. Summer (July–August) brings the warmest temperatures and longest daylight, but afternoon thunderstorms are frequent. Autumn (September–early October) provides crisp air, fewer insects, and stunning fall foliage—but days grow shorter, and temperatures drop quickly after sunset.

Avoid hiking in winter. Snow, ice, and whiteout conditions make navigation nearly impossible without mountaineering experience and equipment. The trail is officially closed from November through April.

Group Size and Solo Hiking

Group size should not exceed six people. Larger groups increase erosion, noise, and disturbance to wildlife. Solo hiking is permitted and common on this trail, but only for experienced hikers. If you’re hiking alone, carry a satellite communicator like a Garmin inReach or SPOT device. These allow you to send SOS signals and share your location even without cell coverage.

Always hike with a partner if you’re unfamiliar with the route. Even the most skilled hikers can misjudge terrain or suffer unexpected injuries.

Wildlife Etiquette

The Blackridge Wilderness is home to black bears, coyotes, porcupines, and over 120 bird species. The Nighthawk is the namesake, but others—including the Peregrine Falcon, Northern Saw-whet Owl, and American Dipper—also inhabit the area.

Store all food, toothpaste, and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hang them at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet from the trunk of a tree. Never leave food unattended, even for a minute.

If you encounter a bear, remain calm. Do not run. Speak calmly and firmly, wave your arms slowly, and back away. Make yourself appear larger. If the bear approaches, use bear spray if you have it—aim for the face, not the body.

Weather Awareness

Weather on the Nighthawk Nest Trail is unpredictable. Even on a clear morning, clouds can roll in rapidly, bringing lightning, hail, or sudden downpours. Watch for these signs:

• Dark, towering clouds forming on the horizon
• Sudden drop in temperature
• Increased wind or stillness
• Thunder or distant rumbles

If you hear thunder, descend immediately. Lightning strikes the exposed granite ridge frequently. Do not shelter under trees or overhangs. Seek low ground and crouch on your pack with feet together until the storm passes.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Mapping Tools

Accurate navigation is critical on this trail. Here are the most reliable digital and physical tools:

• Gaia GPS App: Download the offline map for “Blackridge Wilderness” and enable the USGS Topo layer. The app’s trail history feature lets you retrace your steps if disoriented.
• AllTrails Pro: Offers user-submitted trail reports with recent conditions. Search “Nighthawk Nest Trail” for updates on closures or hazards.
• USGS Topographic Maps: Download the “Blackridge NW” 7.5-minute quadrangle map from the USGS Store. Print a copy and keep it in a waterproof sleeve.
• Compass: A baseplate compass with declination adjustment is essential. Practice using it before your hike.

Navigation Tips for Low-Visibility Conditions

If fog rolls in or you lose trail markers:

1. Stop immediately. Do not continue blindly.
2. Use your compass to confirm your direction of travel.
3. Refer to your map to identify the nearest landmark (e.g., “Sentinel Rock is 0.8 miles northeast”).
4. Look for subtle trail features: worn soil, broken branches, or cairns made of stacked stones.
5. If still uncertain, backtrack to the last known point and reorient.

Recommended Reading and Guides

Deepen your understanding of the trail’s ecology and history with these resources:

• Wilderness Navigation: Finding Your Way Using Map, Compass, and Almanac by Bob Burns
• The Birds of the Blackridge Wilderness by Dr. Eleanor Voss (local ornithologist)
• U.S. Forest Service: “Blackridge Wilderness Management Plan” (available online)
• “Hiking the Hidden Trails of the Northern Rockies” – Field Guide by Mountain Press

Community Resources and Trail Reports

Join the “Blackridge Wilderness Hikers” Facebook group or the Reddit community r/BlackridgeWilderness. These platforms offer real-time updates on trail conditions, recent wildlife sightings, and weather anomalies. Many experienced hikers post GPS tracklogs and photos of cairn placements.

Do not rely on unofficial blogs or YouTube videos—they often contain outdated or inaccurate information. Always cross-reference with official sources.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Unexpected Storm

In July 2022, a solo hiker named Marcus began the Nighthawk Nest Trail at 7 a.m. under clear skies. By 11:30 a.m., dark clouds gathered over the ridge. He reached the summit at 12:15 p.m., took a 15-minute break, and began descending. As he crossed the granite ridge, thunder cracked. He remembered his training: he dropped his pack, crouched on his insulated pad, and waited. The storm passed in 22 minutes. He resumed his descent carefully, using his compass to stay on course. He returned to his vehicle at 4:45 p.m., soaked but unharmed. His preparation saved him.

Example 2: The Lost Cairn

In September 2021, a pair of hikers from out of state missed a critical cairn at the 2.9-mile mark due to heavy rain washing away the stones. They veered 150 yards off-trail, thinking they’d found a shortcut. After an hour of wandering, they realized they were lost. They used their Garmin inReach to send a location pin to a friend, who contacted a local search-and-rescue volunteer. The volunteer guided them via radio back to the correct trail using landmarks. They were found safe at 7:10 p.m. The experience led them to become advocates for carrying physical maps and learning navigation skills.

Example 3: The Nighthawk Encounter

In June 2023, a wildlife photographer named Lena arrived at the nesting grounds at dawn. She set up her tripod 50 yards away, used a long lens, and remained silent for over an hour. She captured rare footage of a parent nighthawk feeding its chick—a behavior rarely documented in the wild. She shared the footage with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which used it in a conservation campaign. Her patience and respect for the species made a lasting impact.

Example 4: The Overpacked Hiker

A novice hiker in August 2020 carried a 45-pound pack filled with unnecessary gear: a full-sized tent, extra clothing, canned food, and a portable chair. He became exhausted by mile 2, developed severe blisters, and had to be assisted off the trail by a ranger. His story serves as a cautionary tale: less is more. Only carry what you need to survive and return safely.

FAQs

Is the Nighthawk Nest Trail suitable for beginners?

No. The trail is rated as moderate to difficult due to its remote location, lack of signage, variable terrain, and elevation gain. It is recommended for hikers with prior wilderness experience and strong navigation skills.

Are dogs allowed on the Nighthawk Nest Trail?

No. Dogs are prohibited to protect wildlife habitats and prevent disturbance to nesting birds. Even well-behaved dogs can stress native animals and disrupt ecological balance.

Is there cell service on the trail?

There is no reliable cell service anywhere along the trail. Do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies. Carry a satellite communicator if hiking solo.

Can I camp on the trail?

Camping is not permitted on the Nighthawk Nest Trail itself. The area is designated as a day-use only zone to protect fragile ecosystems. Overnight camping is allowed only at designated sites in the surrounding Blackridge Wilderness, which require a free permit from the U.S. Forest Service.

What should I do if I see a nighthawk on the ground?

Do not approach. Nighthawks often rest on the ground during the day. Their chicks are camouflaged and may appear abandoned—but they are not. Disturbing them can cause parents to abandon the nest. Observe quietly from a distance.

Is the trail open year-round?

No. The trail is officially closed from November 1 through April 30 due to snow, ice, and hazardous conditions. Always check the U.S. Forest Service website for seasonal updates.

Do I need a permit to hike the Nighthawk Nest Trail?

No permit is required for day hiking. However, you must follow all U.S. Forest Service regulations for the Blackridge Wilderness, including Leave No Trace guidelines and fire restrictions.

How long does it take to complete the trail?

Most hikers complete the round-trip in 5 to 7 hours, depending on fitness, weather, and time spent observing wildlife. Allow extra time if you’re photographing or learning about the flora and fauna.

Can I hike this trail in the rain?

It is not recommended. Rain makes the granite slick and creek crossings dangerous. Trails become muddy and harder to follow. Wait for dry conditions if possible.

What’s the best time of day to hike?

Start at sunrise. This gives you ample daylight, avoids afternoon storms, and increases your chances of seeing active wildlife. The trail is most peaceful and visually stunning in the early morning light.

Conclusion

Hiking the Nighthawk Nest Trail is more than a physical journey—it’s a quiet communion with one of the last untouched corners of the American wilderness. It demands preparation, humility, and a deep respect for the land and its inhabitants. Unlike trails that cater to crowds, this path rewards those who come with intention: those who carry only what they need, who move with care, and who leave nothing behind but footprints.

The trail does not promise spectacle—it offers authenticity. The rustle of wind through pines, the distant cry of a nighthawk at dusk, the silence between heartbeats on a sun-warmed rock—these are the true treasures. They cannot be captured in photos or shared on social media. They are felt.

As you plan your hike, remember: you are a guest in a fragile ecosystem. Your actions here ripple far beyond the trail. By following this guide, you become part of a lineage of stewards who protect not just a path, but a way of being in the natural world.

Go quietly. Go prepared. Go with reverence. And when you return, carry the stillness with you—not just in memory, but in how you live.