Read Mountain Preserve is a 243-acre park with 4.5 miles of natural surface trails. This “mountain island” is visible from most parts of the Roanoke Valley as a long undeveloped ridge. The trails ascend challenging terrain in dry woodlands. Parking, a picnic shelter and an overlook are provided from Crumpacker Drive. The park lands, protected by a conservation easement, were donated to Roanoke County, with the hiking trails built by volunteers. The main destination within the Preserve is Buzzards Rock, which offers views of the Hollins area and Carvins Cove. Other trails provide loop options.
The County is in the process of acquiring an additional 300 acres on the northwest side of the mountain.