Buzzard

Updated June 26, 2025

Buzzard’s Roost Nature Preserve

## Buzzard’s Roost Nature Preserve, Chillicothe: Rugged Cliffs, Quiet Forest, Big Views

On the western edge of Chillicothe, the Earl H. Barnhart Buzzard’s Roost Nature Preserve protects more than 1,500 acres of some of the most dramatic terrain in Ross County. The plateau ends in sheer sandstone and shale cliffs that drop into the deep gorge of Paint Creek, with hiking trails threading through forest, old homesteads, ponds, and ravines.

Managed by the Ross County Park District, Buzzard’s Roost has grown steadily since the first 373 acres were donated in 2000 by Jean Barnhart in memory of her husband Earl. Today it offers over seven miles of forested hiking trails, several distinct loop routes, and signature overlooks that regularly rank among the most scenic views in southern Ohio.

Recent aggregated reviews based on Google data give the preserve roughly 4.9 out of 5 from more than 200 visitors, with hikers repeatedly calling out the views from South Point Lookout and the well-maintained trails.

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## Where Is Buzzard’s Roost?

– Location: 514 Red Bird Lane, Chillicothe, Ohio 45601
– Region: West of downtown Chillicothe in Ross County, in Ohio’s Appalachian foothills

From central Chillicothe, the preserve is reached via Western Avenue heading west, then Polk Hollow Road, followed by a sharp one-lane turn onto Red Bird Lane leading up into the hills to the main parking area.

At the trailhead you’ll typically find:

– A gravel parking lot
– Basic restroom facilities (porta-potty) plus an additional restroom a short distance along one of the main trails
– A small picnic/gazebo area and bird feeders that attract a variety of species such as cardinals, blue jays, finches, and woodpeckers

Accessibility note: trails are natural-surface with roots, rocks, and steep grades. They’re generally not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, though confident kids and fit older visitors regularly complete the shorter loops.

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## The Landscape: Paint Creek Gorge and Forested Plateau

Buzzard’s Roost sits on a high plateau that ends abruptly in towering cliffs above the Paint Creek Gorge. The Lookout Trail and South Point Lookout areas give you long views down into a forested valley with a ribbon of water far below.

Key landscape features:

– Sandstone and shale cliffs with vertical drops that can reach roughly 600 feet in places along the rim, according to recent hiking reports.
– Mixed hardwood forest with seasonal wildflowers, fungi, and rich fall color.
– Ponds and vernal pools, plus deep wooded ravines scattered across the preserve.
– A sense of relative remoteness despite being close to town; the final approach is on a narrow, winding hill road.

Older trip reports from 2012 describe the preserve as about 1,330 acres, while current park-district information notes “over 1,500 acres”, suggesting additional land has been added since those early accounts.

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## Main Hiking Trails at Buzzard’s Roost

The Ross County Park District lists over seven miles of forested hiking trails, with three headline routes most visitors experience first.

### 1. Lookout Trail & South Point Lookout

– Type: Loop with spur overlooks
– Difficulty: Moderate (hills, roots, and cliff edges)
– Highlights: Big views into Paint Creek Gorge, classic “postcard” shots of the valley

The Lookout Trail is the preserve’s flagship hike. Official descriptions emphasize that a walk here delivers “magnificent views of the vertical cliffs of sandstone and shale that descend into Paint Creek Gorge from the South Point Lookout.”

Recent accounts describe South Point Lookout as roughly a 2-mile loop that feels longer due to steady climbs and leaf-covered sections. AllTrails users rate the main walking route in the preserve around 4.7/5 from hundreds of reviews, and it’s generally categorized as “moderately challenging” rather than easy.

Additional details from recent hikers:

– The trail is well-marked and forms a true loop, which reduces the risk of getting turned around.
– Expect narrow sections with steep side-slopes and occasional loose leaves hiding roots and rocks.
– There are inner and outer loops on the red-blazed route; both reach the overlooks.
– At the rim, you’re walking near unprotected cliff edges—there are some railings, but not everywhere. This is where careful supervision of children and dogs is essential.

On wetter days or in spring, hikers sometimes mention a small seasonal waterfall known locally as Blueberry Falls visible from the overlook area, although flow is not guaranteed.

### 2. Hoggard Trail

– Focus: Local history and old homesteads
– Experience: Quieter forest path with cultural sites

The Hoggard Trail offers a different side of Buzzard’s Roost. Instead of rim views, it leads through former farmsteads and highlights the Hoggard Family Cemetery plus foundations and ruins from homesteading days.

Reviews note that:

– Gravestones date back to the early 1800s.
– The trail still has climbs and uneven surfaces, but generally feels more tranquil and less exposed than the rim route.

For hikers interested in the human history of southern Ohio’s hill country—farm life, abandonment during the 20th century, and regrowth of forest—this loop is particularly rewarding.

### 3. Kid’s Nature Zone Trail & Storywalk

– Audience: Families with younger children
– Features: Playful interpretive trail, rotating stories

Buzzard’s Roost has been deliberately developed with kids in mind via the Kid’s Nature Zone Trail. The park district describes this route as full of “whimsy and exploration,” with 24 Storywalk stations featuring pages from children’s books displayed along the path; the featured story changes roughly monthly.

This trail:

– Stays closer to the main facilities
– Avoids the most extreme cliff edges
– Gives families a way to enjoy the forest even if they’re not ready for the full South Point Lookout loop

It doesn’t eliminate the need for supervision—roots, mud, and small drop-offs still exist—but it’s clearly designed as a family-friendly entry point into the preserve.

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## When to Visit Buzzard’s Roost

### Seasons

– Autumn: Articles on Ohio fall road trips regularly single out Buzzard’s Roost for its sweeping valley views and foliage, noting that there are multiple scenic overlooks plus a natural play area.
– Spring: Good time for wildflowers, mushrooms, and potentially stronger flow at seasonal features like Blueberry Falls.
– Summer: Lush green forest and long daylight hours; expect more humidity and insects.
– Winter: Views open up as leaves drop; trails can be icy or muddy and footing becomes more technical.

The preserve is generally open from early morning to evening; third-party listings note hours such as 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., but exact opening times can change. Always confirm current hours via the Ross County Park District website before you go.

### Crowds

Buzzard’s Roost is less famous than nearby Hocking Hills, but it does see spikes—especially on clear autumn weekends, when local guides warn that the best overlooks can become busy. Visiting early in the day or on weekdays helps preserve the sense of solitude many hikers value here.

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## Practical Tips, Safety, and Inclusivity

Because of the cliffs and terrain, Buzzard’s Roost asks for a little more attention than an in-town park, but in return you get some of the most dramatic views in southern Ohio.

Safety & terrain

– Expect steep drop-offs along South Point Lookout and sections of the Lookout Trail. There are limited railings; keep children and dogs close and avoid edge selfies.
– Trails are natural surface with rocks, roots, and leaves. Recent hikers report that paths are generally clear and well-maintained, but fallen trees and slick spots do appear after storms.
– Standard hiking gear—sturdy shoes, water, and basic first aid—is strongly recommended even though trail distances are relatively short.

Facilities & amenities

– Restrooms: Expect at least one porta-potty at the parking area and another restroom along a main trail; conditions can vary with season and usage.
– Picnic options: A gazebo and small seating areas near the trailhead make it easy to pair a hike with lunch.
– Pets: Many visitors bring dogs; always check the latest Ross County Park District rules on leashes and clean-up.

Inclusivity & experience levels

– Shorter trails (including parts of the Kid’s Nature Zone) and the option to walk partial loops allow different fitness levels to enjoy the preserve.
– However, the combination of uneven ground and steep slopes means Buzzard’s Roost is not currently accessible for many wheelchair users or visitors who require paved, flat surfaces.
– Interpretive elements like the Storywalk and the focus on both nature and local history provide multiple ways to engage with the site beyond pure physical challenge.

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## Checking for Updates and Outdated Information

Information about acreages, trail routing, and facilities at Buzzard’s Roost has evolved over time. Older blog posts and trip reports from the early 2010s describe a smaller acreage and sometimes fewer formal trails than are listed today, reflecting how the preserve has expanded and developed.

Because of ongoing stewardship work, seasonal events, and potential changes to hours or rules, the most reliable current source is the Ross County Park District’s official Buzzard’s Roost page and trail map.

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### Bottom Line

Buzzard’s Roost is a high-reward hiking area near Chillicothe, with:

– Big-view cliffs over Paint Creek Gorge
– A choice of moderate rim hikes, history-focused forest trails, and kid-oriented nature paths
– Strong recent visitor ratings and ongoing investment by the local park district

Key Highlights

• Casual, friendly local atmosphere
• Homestyle American comfort menu
• Counter seating and small dining area ideal for solo travelers
• Local-regulars vibe — good for people-watching and conversation
• Short drink list including beers and classic nonalcoholic options

Location

Places to Stay Near Buzzard's Roost"Walking and hiking trails to scenic views"

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