The sanctuary is a prime location for the viewing of kettling and migrating raptors, known as hawkwatching, with an average of 20,000 hawks, eagles and falcons passing the lookouts during the late summer and fall every year.

[citation needed] Located in the sanctuary is Schaumboch's Tavern, listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

[7] The area was a popular site for shooting hawks, either for sport or to prevent depredations on domestic fowl or game birds.

In 1934, Rosalie Edge leased 1,400 acres (570 ha) of property on Hawk Mountain and hired wardens to keep the hunters away.

[citation needed] The peak migration time at Hawk Mountain Sanctuary varies among the various species.