Stay Active in Roanoke, VA

Trails, Parks & Outdoor Adventures in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Known as "America's East Coast Mountain Bike Capital" and gateway to the Appalachian Trail, Roanoke offers unparalleled outdoor recreation. With 1,000+ miles of trails, 22 city parks, and the stunning Blue Ridge Parkway, adventure awaits just minutes from downtown.

Iconic Hiking Trails

McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob

Appalachian Trail • 8.8 miles roundtrip • Moderate

The most photographed spot on the entire Appalachian Trail offers panoramic views from a dramatic rocky outcrop. Morning hikes often reward with cloud inversions blanketing the valley below.

Pro Tip: Arrive by 6am for sunrise and parking at Catawba Valley Drive trailhead.

Mill Mountain Star Trail

Downtown Access • 3.6 miles loop • Easy

This urban trail network connects directly from downtown to the iconic Roanoke Star. Multiple routes offer wildflower meadows, rocky overlooks, and the famous "Love" sign viewpoint.

Local Secret: The Chestnut Ridge Loop extension adds 2.5 miles with better wildlife viewing.

Mill Mountain Trail

Mountain Biking Paradise

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

12,700 acres • 60+ miles of trails

The second largest municipal park in America features flowy singletrack, technical rock gardens, and lakeside rides. The "Hi-Dee-Hoe" trail is a local favorite with berms and rollers.

Need gear? Roanoke Mountain Adventures offers full-suspension demo bikes and shuttle services.

Explore Park

Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 115 • 1,100 acres

Newly developed trail system with progressive features from beginner to double-black diamond. The "Giddy Up" trail offers machine-built jumps and drops with scenic overlooks.

Water Adventures

Roanoke River Blueway

13-mile paddling trail • Class I-II

Gentle river floats through downtown with multiple access points. Rent kayaks from Roanoke Outside or join a full-moon paddle event.

Smith Mountain Lake

40 minutes south • 500 miles shoreline

Virginia's "Jewel of the Blue Ridge" offers sailing, wakeboarding, and legendary smallmouth bass fishing.

Tinker Creek Gorge

Hidden swimming holes • Cliff jumping

Local favorite for summer cooling off. The 20-foot jump at "Tinker Cliffs" tests your courage.

Outdoor Pro Tips

  • • Trail conditions update: @RoanokeOutside on Twitter
  • • Free guided hikes every Saturday from various trailheads
  • • Download Trailforks or MTB Project apps for offline maps
  • • Spring wildflower hikes peak mid-April at Bottom Creek Gorge