Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve

Description

Elevation: 1460 ft.

The Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve is conveniently located just outside of Rocky Mount. A 6.5 mile hiking trail system provides access to 1,295 acres of deciduous forest intermingled with a few Virginia pines. Birds to search for in this habitat include red-bellied and downy woodpeckers, Carolina chickadee, tufted titmouse, Carolina wren, northern cardinal, and blue jay. In winter, the snowy slopes of the grassy hill could support white-throated sparrow and dark-eyed junco while raptors such as red-tailed and red-shouldered hawks could turn up at any time of year. The unusual soil and rock substrates found at Grassy Hill provide habitat for rare woodland communities. Several rare plants grow in small grassy openings near the hill’s summit. It’s also worth checking along the edge of the woods for a variety of butterflies or the occasional dragonfly.

Note: Part or all of the preserve may be periodically closed for resource protection, deer management, or prescribed burning activities. Please call before visiting.

Directions

Physical Address: 235 Technology Dr., Rocky Mount, VA 24151

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. Trail users may park at the YMCA or The Gereau Center for Applied Technology and Career Exploration (150 Technology Dr.) after school hours.