Start of the Buck Mountain Trail on the Blue Ridge Parkway
View: ♦ / 5
Trails: Buck Mountain Trail
Picnic Tables: None
There is a view at the Buck Mountain Overlook, but this is not one that you can see from your car. You must hike to the view on the Buck Mountain Trail. Unfortunately, the view is close to being overgrown, so the trail is not worth your time unless you just want some exercise.
Buck Mountain Trail
Length: 1 mile round trip
Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Moderate
Adhering to the mathematical principle that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line, the Buck Mountain Trail ascends the mountain without resorting to switchbacks, taking hikers right to the top on a half-mile, uphill climb. Luckily, the incline is not very steep. Once at the top, you can catch a glimpse of Roanoke Valley and the surrounding mountains.
The trail starts off on a paved path but soon turns into a relatively smooth gravel trail. About ten minutes into the hike the trail forks. Though there is no sign indicating which way to go, this is just the start of a short loop that goes around the top of the mountain, so you can go either way. Other than this, there are no unmarked intersections or spur trails, just a straightforward out-and-back hike.
Typical terrain of the Blue Ridge Parkway’s Buck Mountain Trail
As is typical with overlooks and trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the view is just a few years away from being completely lost. A bench once offered a seat and a view for those worn out by the short hike, and while you can still take a rest, you can barely see a lone mountain through the trees.
View from the Buck Mountain Overlook at Mile Post 123 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
View from the Buck Mountain Trail at Mile Post 123 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
As you walk around the loop you will find a second viewing area, this one allowing a peak at the town of Starkey to the northwest.
View of Starkey, Virginia, from the Buck Mountain Trail at Mile Post 123 on the Blue Ridge Parkway
When done, head back down the same way you came. The hike takes about a half hour, time that can be better spent elsewhere.
For information on other trails in the area, see the Roanoke Valley Hiking Trails web page.
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Last updated on November 8, 2023
