East entrance to Ruffner Mountain Nature Preserve, a 1,011 acre hiking oasis located just minutes away from downtown. Parking is limited, but the geocaches on the eastern side of the mountain are more accessible from here. You can pick up a map of the trail system at the information kiosk located near the cache site or download one from Ruffner's website. More parking, a picnic pavilion, and restrooms are available at the main entrance located on 81st street. There also is a Southern entrance to the park providing more direct access the overlooks and quarry sites.
If you plan to hike, insect repellant (in the warm months) and hiking boots are advisable. Stay on the trails to avoid poison ivy in the summer months. If time allows, hike or drive over to the environmentally green Nature Center and consider making a $2 per person donation to help fund this valuable urban green space. For more information and to see how you can become a member, visit www.ruffnermountain.org.