While it happened before and after the pandemic eased, during the heat of the initial onslaught, humans left the cities and suburbs to explore the great outdoors. While a good intent, overall, this phenomenon also meant the woods were saturated with nature novices who did much damage to national parks. Still, the mile-plus trail to the peak of Hawksbill Mountain is a wonderful climb as once you are to, the views of Linville Gorge are amazing.