Read Mountain Preserve - Roanoke, VA
Read Mountain Preserve: A Dog-Friendly Hiking Destination in Roanoke, Virginia
Read Mountain Preserve in Roanoke, Virginia, offers pet-friendly trails and scenic outdoor adventures perfect for dog owners and nature enthusiasts alike. The preserve features well-marked hiking trails for all levels, including the popular blue-blazed trail leading up to Buzzards Rock for stunning mountain views. With its peaceful, less crowded atmosphere, mature shade trees, and interesting terrains like rocks, streams, and pine-covered paths, Read Mountain is ideal for those seeking dog-friendly hiking experiences year-round.
While this isn’t a traditional fenced dog park, the natural setting makes it a favorite spot for dog owners who enjoy moderate hikes with their pets. Visitors can enjoy shaded areas, natural streams, photo opportunities, and seasonal splashes of color from mountain laurels. Please note, amenities like trash bins and restrooms are available, but the park’s cleanliness can fluctuate during busy periods. The preserve is open year-round and closes around 8 PM; parking is available on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve has several well-marked hiking trails, including routes to Buzzards Rock and a diversity of natural terrain.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, the trails are wooded with plenty of shaded areas along the way.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there are nearby bathroom facilities.
- Is there parking available? Yes, visitors can park in the designated lot at the trailhead.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, Read Mountain Preserve is open to visitors year-round.
- Is the park regularly cleaned and maintained? Trails are maintained, although parking lot trash bins can overflow during busy times.
Reviews
It’s mountain laurel season in the SW Virginia mountains which adds a splash of color to an already great experience. Get out there and enjoy it.
Good wooded hike! Well marked to stay on the right trail. We saw a creek along the way. It’s pretty rocky and you even climb some rock steps. If you take the blue trail, it takes you 2 miles up the mountain to Buzzards Rock. It’s all uphill to the overlook, but not too steep. I’d say this hike is moderately challenging.
Read Mountain Preserve in Roanoke, VA, features well-marked trails suitable for all levels, leading to scenic views like Buzzards Rock. It’s known for its peaceful, less crowded atmosphere, great for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying nature year-round. It closes at 8 I think, also there is nearby bathroom.
I am disappointed in the litter in the parking lot. Trash cans were overflowing and litter was all over the ground. But the trails are beautiful and challenging.
When the trail first forks, the one to the left is more difficult and steep at the end. Before you get there you will see another trail going up on the right. It connects to the original trail with a blue blaze and takes you to the top. At the top there is a short narrow trail that dead ends with a few short trails off of it. They dead end as well.
Challenges and rewards.
Lots of shade rock sand leaves pine needles tree roots and tiny stream. My boyfriend and I enjoyed the adventure of the various terrain and photo opportunities. One important improvement needed. Once you get to the top of the mountain, you have to seek and find the small unmarked path to get to the lookout. The reward for all your labor is up there and hopefully a sign will be forthcoming.