- Highlights: Views
- Distance: 3.6 miles out and back
- Elevation Change: 840 feet
- Trail Surface: Dirt and rocks
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Trailhead Parking: Read Mountain Preserve, 6101 Crumpacker Dr., Bonsack, VA
- Trail Markings: Blue blazes, signs at trail junctions
- Website: AllTrails and Roanoke County Parks
- Beer Pairings: Twin Creeks Brewery—Cosmic Daze IPA & Galway Girl Irish Red Ale
Trail Map:
The Hike:
This hike to Buzzard Rock has some of the best views in the Roanoke area. Read Mountain is the long, undeveloped ridge looming above the Roanoke Valley. The park lands, protected by a conservation easement, were donated to Roanoke County and the hiking trails were built by volunteers. The 243-acre park has nearly five miles of hiking trails including a longer loop version of this hike.
The trailhead is located amidst a residential neighborhood and the small parking area fills up quickly on weekends. The blue-blazed Buzzard Rock Trail begins at the parking area near the trail kiosk. The climb to Buzzards Rock is steady as the trail passes by numerous rock features and streams.
Buzzards Rock is located on Razorback Ridge and the best views are right by the bench. AllTrails shows the trail continuing past the bench. Its a fun scramble through the rocks but the views are all obstructed by trees. For a longer hike follow the orange-blazed CCC Trail to the yellow-blazed Rocky Way Trail which eventually intersects with the blue-blazed Buzzards Rock Trail. Or simply follow the blue-blazes to return to the parking area.
Hike Photos:
Beer Pairing:
Twin Creeks Brew Pub is located about 30 minutes south of the trailhead. The brewery and restaurant are located in the historic Brugh Tavern within Explore Park. They have 10 taps of craft beer and also serve cider and wine. A variety of pub food is served along with indoor and outdoor seating.
The Twin Creeks Brew Pub is only open on weekends. The Twin Creeks Brewery and Taproom in nearby Vinton has extended hours and more selections on tap.
Kathy enjoyed a cold pint of Cosmic Daze (5.8% ABV), a New England IPA brewed with Cascade, Comet, El Dorado, and Simcoe hops. Galway Girl (5.6% ABV) is an Irish Red Ale with a classic red color, toasty caramel notes, a soft hop aroma and a dry finish—a perfect Irish Red. Hoppy trails.
Hike and drink responsibly. Never drink and drive. Stay safe, be responsible, and leave no trace.