If you’re looking for information about visiting Hawn’s Overlook at Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County, you’re in the right place!
Hawn’s Overlook is arguably the best-known and most scenic of the overlooks perched high on the hills above Raystown Lake.
This article will show you how to find Hawn’s Overlook, as well as several other spectacular scenic views in the nearby vicinity.
A Brief History of Raystown Lake
Raystown Lake in Huntingdon County is the largest lake entirely situated with the state of Pennsylvania.
Created by damming the Raystown Branch of the Juniata River, this 8,300 acre Army Corps of Engineers project provides flood control, recreational opportunities, and power generation via a hydroelectric generating station located at the Raystown Dam.
Dedicated in 1974, Raystown Lake is a popular spot for boating, swimming, fishing, and scuba diving.
The area around the lake also provides for some spectacular views, four of which are the subject of this article.
1. Hawn’s Overlook at Raystown Lake
Perhaps the most well-known and most-scenic vista at Raystown Lake, Hawn’s Overlook offers 180 degree views from a perch high above Hawn’s Peninsula.
Hawn’s Overlook is accessed from a gravel lot at the end of Henderson Overlook Road.
A 300 yard crushed-stone trail leads from the parking lot to Hawn’s Overlook.
Just look for the sign pictured below at the back edge of the parking lot, marking the trailhead for the short hike to the overlook.
The GPS coordinates for Hawn’s Overlook are 40.42973, -78.01895.
Once you reach Hawn’s Overlook, you’ll be amazed by the views!
A fence and retaining wall serve to deter visitors from venturing too close to the drop-off below the overlook.
An informational sign lets you know what you’re looking at.
Boaters on the lake seem almost microscopic from this elevated vantage point.
The enormity of the lake becomes apparent from Hawn’s Overlook, maybe more so than from any other vantage point.
Winter is a beautiful time to visit Hawn’s Overlook.
On a cold, clear day the views from Hawn’s Overlook seem to go on forever.
There are also great fall foliage views to be had from this vantage point.
The autumn colors blanket the surrounding hills, with rich reds, oranges, and yellows reflecting off the calm, blue waters of the lake.
This scenic vantage point offers a tranquil and awe-inspiring experience, perfect for immersing yourself in the beauty of the season.
2. Ridenour Overlook at Raystown Lake
Ridenour Overlook at Raystown Lake offers sweeping views of the Raystown Dam and the Juniata River Valley downstream.
It is located at GPS coordinates 40.43144, -78.01685, and is adjacent to the parking area next to the Hawn’s Overlook trailhead.
Steps leading to the vista from the parking area take you past an Army Corps of Engineers monument.
At the top of the stairs is a large wall and observation area, along with several benches.
Informational signs let you know what you are looking at from the vista.
And then of course there is the view from Ridenour Overlook itself!
A view that is exceptional no matter what time of year you visit.
From Ridenour Overlook you can easily see the next two views I’ll mention – the Raystown Dam Overlook and the Raystown Pagoda.
3. Raystown Dam Overlook
While this view is from below rather than above, the scene is no less remarkable from the Raystown Dam Overlook, located along River Road at GPS coordinates 40.43285, -77.99930.
As with the first two overlooks mentioned, an informational sign lets you know what you are viewing, as well as a bit of history of Raystown Lake.
A large paved area near the Raystown Dam Overlook is a popular fishing spot.
An informational sign near the overlook tells you a bit about the power-generating capacity the dam provides.
4. Raystown Pagoda
The Raystown Pagoda is accessed via Raystown Dam Road, which passes directly below the breast of the dam.
The overlook is located at GPS coordinates 40.43073, -78.00735, and there are restrooms located next to the pagoda and parking area.
This is one of the more unusual pavilions you’ll find in Pennsylvania, and it is dedicated to James Weaver, the resident engineer on the Raystown Dam project from 1968-1973.
The Raystown Pagoda offers shade from the sun or shelter from the rain, while providing an outstanding view of Raystown Lake.
Raystown Lake is nearly 200 feet deep in this area directly above the dam, and is rumored to be the home of Raystown Ray, a cousin (perhaps) of the famed Loch Ness Monster!
The Raytown Pagoda is a picturesque covered spot for a picnic at Raystown Lake.
So there you have it – directions to Hawn’s Overlook at Raystown Lake, as well as three other nearby scenic views!
Nearby Attractions
The Proud Mary Sightseeing Cruise at Raystown Lake uses a modern diesel-powered replica of a paddlewheel riverboat to take passengers on 90 minute sightseeing excursions on the lake.
Trough Creek State Park in Huntingdon County is home to a variety of attractions, including the spectacular Rainbow Falls.
The East Broad Top Railroad offers scenic train rides, shop tours, and visits to the “roundhouse” where their fleet of six historic steam engines live.
Saint Mary’s Covered Bridge is the lone remaining covered bridge in Huntingdon County.
Indian Lookout in Huntingdon County is one of the most outstanding scenic overlooks in all the Rothrock State Forest.
21 Must-See Attractions in Huntingdon County is your guide to even more great things to see and do near Hawn’s Overlook!
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