Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve
6.6 miles, moderate terrain
25 miles from Roanoke, $2.50 Carpool fee
DRIVING DIRECTIONS:
From Roanoke, take US 220 east to Rocky Mount. When you approach Rocky Mount,
take Business Route 220 into town. Go through the first stoplight and turn
right onto Technology Drive. Go about 0.1 miles and the trailhead kiosk is on
the right.
This hike is 6.6 miles on the Grassy Hill Hiking Trail
System that starts at the base in Rocky Mount, Va., and climbs to the ridgeline
with two trail loops along the ridge top and side slopes.
This hike will traverse Grassy Hill which is
a formation composed of ancient volcanic rocks rich in magnesium. Hikers will
get to see a mixture of habitats including areas that support rare plants.