Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Berks County, will host its 3nd Annual Hawk Mountain Hill Climb, a 5K run or walk, on June 15.  The two-mile finish on Hawk Mountain Road will end at the Sanctuary Visitor Center.

Registration opens at 8 a.m. and the scenic course includes shuttle drop off at start point followed by a road run that includes a challenging, uphill climb. Cost is $30 through race day and the first 200 entrants receive a cool commemorative Hill Climb tee, a goodie bag filled with fun items from friends and sponsors, breakfast items throughout the morning, a bagged lunch courtesy of Brick House Grill, Orwigsburg, live raptor programs at 11 and 2 p.m., and culmination door prizes and Awards Ceremony at 11 a.m.

The race begins at 10 a.m. for runners and 10:05 for walkers and both groups will follow a scenic course that passes farmland and fields before cutting through the forest, passing the Appalachian Trail, and heading to the top of the ridge.

Hawk Mountain's 5K is famous for its scenery as well as the difficulty level, and the option to complete a looped and untimed hike. While all ages are welcome to participate, during the race, the Visitor Center, trails, and overlooks will provide a great distraction for fans and friends.

Runners and walkers will be timed using the same course. Hikers will not timed but will receive a stamped pass to certify participation. Hikers who pay the registration fee also will receive the goodie bag, tee-shirt and lunch.

An award ceremony and finale celebration will begin promptly at 11 a.m. Other activities will include a free live raptor program and food vendors including an ice cream truck.

Applications and information are available on the Hawk Mountain website or by calling 610-756-6961. 

6/3/2013