Hawk's Nest Road is a twisting and rolling breathtaking ride in NY

Hawk's Nest Road is the name of a fantastic, winding piece of asphalt located outside Port Jervis, in southern New York, in USA. It’s a curvy, cliffside stretch of road along the Delaware River with breathtaking views.

Where does Hawk's Nest Road start and end?

Part of the Scenic Upper Delaware Byway, the road is totally paved. It’s a snake-like route along the Delaware River with stunning views. The road (New York State Route 97) is 112km (69.5 miles) long, running from Port Jervis (a city at the confluence of the Neversink and Delaware rivers in western Orange County) to Hancock (a village in Delaware County). Most of the route follows a shoreline path along the river at roughly water level. The most famous part of the drive is a short curvy section with 9 turns known as Hawk's Nest. Running along the shoulder of the bluffs towering over the river valley, its name is derived from the birds of prey that nest in the area.

Is the Hawk's Nest Road scenic?

Less than a two hour drive from Manhattan, near the Pennsylvania state line, the drive is definitely worth it. It’s a short, rolling breathtaking drive but with many twists and stunning views, especially in Summer and Autumn. The pleasant and scenic road does get busier at weekends and in the main holiday season. Along this section of the road there are a couple of scenic lookouts in the Delaware River valley. It has been frequently used in television commercials and advertisements (has been used to shoot ads for Porsche, BMW, Saab, Cadillac, and Honda). In 2016 the Hawk's Nest had a brief but important role in the hit 3D movie, Dr. Strange, where he has the car accident. It was also featured in the film, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

When was Hawk's Nest Road built?

Tucked away in Upstate New York, the curvy and picturesque road running alongside the side of several cliffs overlooking the Delaware River, was originally a one-lane dirt road built in 1859 and paved between 1931–1933. The road takes its name from the Hawk’s Nest scenic location.

Is Hawk's Nest Road dangerous?

This route is not recommended if your passengers are prone to car sickness. Don’t stuff your belly too much. Most of the route after the set of twisties is a good, relaxing, enjoyable drive with some long corners and huge slopes. However, it’s pretty sneaky and you must be careful driving on it. While not the most dangerous road on our site, accidents can even if you're being careful. The current speed limit is 55 mph.

Image credit: Depositphotos