Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve - Willis, VA
Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve in Willis, VA, offers a fantastic dog park experience with pet-friendly trails perfect for dog owners looking for a scenic outdoor adventure. This natural area features well-maintained hiking trails that are dog-friendly and suitable for kids, making it an ideal spot for families and pet lovers alike. The preserve is known for its moderate hiking difficulty and beautiful 360-degree panoramic views at the summit, providing a rewarding experience for all visitors.
The park includes two main trails—the Ridge Trail, which is shorter and steeper, and the Oak Trail, which offers a gentler elevation gain with switchbacks, catering to different hiking levels. Dogs are allowed on leash, and the area is great for walking and hiking with your furry friend. Although the entrance is not wheelchair accessible, the peaceful summit area is perfect for picnics, reading, or simply enjoying the stunning views. With limited parking and a port-o-john on site, Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve is a must-visit dog park in Willis, VA, for those seeking a short but rewarding outdoor escape with their pets.
FAQ for Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve in Willis Virginia:
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? No, all dogs must be on a leash at Buffalo Mountain Natural Area Preserve.
- Is the park wheelchair accessible? No, the entrance is not wheelchair accessible.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there are multiple well-maintained and marked hiking trails, including the Ridge Trail and Oak Trail, leading to a beautiful summit with panoramic views. The trails vary in difficulty and length.
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, there is a porta-potty available in the parking area.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park is kid-friendly and good for children with kid-friendly hikes available.
- Where is the best place to park? There are about 10 parking spots available on-site, and parking is generally accessible even around midday.
Reviews
Short hike with two routes, leading up to a beautiful view of the surrounding area. If you want a hike without spending the entire day doing it, this is one for you
Short but extremely rewarding hike. Round trip is about 2 miles. The views at the top are awesome inspiring. Pictures do not do it justice. Enjoy!
Three well maintained and marked trails. The trails lead to a beautiful overlook. Parking area has a portal potty. All dogs must be on a leash.
My fat gut had a hard time making the summit. Most people won’t face that, but it is a tough uphill haul. Seems longer than it is. But the views are worth every ounce of sweat and energy it takes to get there.The trail is not for the unsteady!
Fantastic, short, moderate hike that leads to beautiful 360 panoramic view at the top.There are two trails leading up to the summit–the Ridge Trail being shorter and steeper at .5 miles one way and the Oak Trail being a little longer and incorporating switchbacks for a slower elevation gain at .9 miles one way, making this trail fairly accessible to different hiking levels and kids too. These two trails connect at Barren’s loop trail which adds another .3 miles one way.It was very peaceful at the summit, and a great place to kick back, have a picnic, read a book, or simply bask in the views.There are only 10 parking spots, but I had no difficulty getting a spot at 12pm, and there is a port-o-john on site too.Highly recommend if you are looking for something short and sweet