Read Mountain Preserve 6101 Crumpacker Drive, Roanoke, VA 24012

"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. There’s also a bench at the summit which wasn’t always there. I honestly don’t see the need for a bench up there as there are plenty of rocks to sit on. Overall a beautiful mountain and a beautiful view that overlooks Roanoke, mainly the hollins area. You can also watch airplanes take off and land from the summit!"

"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. Bring water on hot days."

"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."

"Short but can be intense climb if you take the red and yellow trails. I'd recommend having hiking boots with ankle support. The blue trail is a nice gentle incline. It is about 2.1 miles to the rock cliffs and you can go further but not as good of a view. Decent parking and seems pretty safe."