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Read Mountain Preserve
4.8 ★★★★★ 304 Google reviews · Running trail in Roanoke, Virginia · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- 5 mi
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Tree cover
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Read Mountain Preserve's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Forested recreation area with 5 mi. of hiking trails & a summit with panoramic valley views.
What runners say about Read Mountain Preserve
“The parking lot is small but the place is clean and well maintained.”
“The view from the top is gorgeous as you peek towards parts of the Roanoke Valley (airport area) from several rock formations or even a bench for those who prefer it.”
“Read Mountain Preserve in Roanoke, VA, features well-marked trails suitable for all levels, leading to scenic views like Buzzards Rock.”
“Read Mountain Preserve in Roanoke, VA, features well-marked trails suitable for all levels, leading to scenic views like Buzzards Rock.”
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.
Didn't realize that a hike like this was available so close. Trail is well maintained and marked. It's a steady climb going up along with steps. There some awesome views with the airport all the way to Carvins Cove.
I love read mountain!!! The hike is easy to moderate and there’s many trails to choose from to get to the summit. This helps if you want a harder hike or if you want some solitude. The hike can range from 2-3 miles to the summit depending on which trail you take.
If you're looking for a local hike that's challenging and fun, look no further. And the view from Buzzards Rock is worth the effort. Have a seat on the bench at the overlook and enjoy! Varying distance between 4-5 miles round trip depends on your route. Rocky Way alternative is challenging but scenic.
Trail conditions & character
“The view from the top is gorgeous as you peek towards parts of the Roanoke Valley (airport area) from several rock formations or even a bench for those who prefer it.”
“We went up the rocky way trail, crossover then buzzards rock trail to the top.”
“Not a super challenging hike but there is about 800 ft of elevation gain to the Rock.”
“Round trip hike from the trailhead to Buzzards Rock then along the CCC trail and yellow trail is around 6 miles.”
“Round trip hike from the trailhead to Buzzards Rock then along the CCC trail and yellow trail is around 6 miles.”
“Buzzard Rock trail at Read Mountain is a lovely trail that winds through forested areas with plenty of shade, making it especially comfortable on hot, sunny days.”
“Read Mountain Preserve in Roanoke, VA, features well-marked trails suitable for all levels, leading to scenic views like Buzzards Rock.”
Plan your run at Read Mountain Preserve
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- Distance5 mi as reported — check whether that is one way or a round trip before you commit. Long enough for a real long run.
- ShadeRunners describe real tree cover here — it makes a summer afternoon workable
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Websiteroanokecountyparks.com
- Phone+1 540-387-6078
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Running trails near Roanoke
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
Tinker Creek Greenway, Hollins Trailhead
4.5 ★★★★★ 57 reviews
Park featuring a kid-friendly hiking trail that's also popular for mountain biking.
Tinker Creek Trailhead
4.4 ★★★★☆ 87 reviews
Paved trail for walking, biking and running, plus a few non-paved trails.
Roanoke River Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 61 reviews
Area for canoeing, hiking and rock scrambling, plus waterfalls and river rapids.
