Roanoke’s Top Outdoor Activities: A Local’s Guide

Roanoke, Virginia, is a spot with a background that draws the eye in light of the Blue Ridge Mountains and it’s just one of those places, too, it offers pretty nice spots for anyone who really enjoys investing some energy in the extraordinary outside. With everything taken into account, in case you’re organizing an outing here and searching for some movement thoughts, well then, you’re lucky. We’re chatting about top spots to visit! Having explored each edge of this scenic area, allow me to be your guide as we investigate the five best outdoor activities Roanoke brings to the table.

1. Hiking to McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob tends to be one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail, and trust me, the hike to arrive is absolutely worth doing it, too. So, with everything considered, this trek is no joke, covering roughly 8 miles round-trip, however, the payoff at the culmination? Basically stunning panoramic views. It’s almost that you’re seeing each thing the light touches. Remember, I feel like, bring some water, snacks, and perhaps an additional layer – the climate up there has some moodiness to it and tends to be just a little bit unpredictable. In the fall, the foliage is something that everyone likes, however it can get truly swarmed. Anyway, to maintain a strategic distance from the groups, well then, try a weekday or head out really early in the day.

One time, I climbed McAfee with a companion who was visiting from overseas. So, he’d seen pictures, of course, yet nothing truly prepared him for the immensity of the view. Is that he really just stood there for a good 10 minutes, just completely speechless. You see this a lot, by the way. It’s almost the perfect spot for a photo opportunity, too. To me, the whole experience genuinely encapsulates the raw magnificence that Roanoke has to offer, especially if your like your outdoors like I do. Read our full review: McAfee Knob hiking Full Review and Details

2. Biking the Roanoke Valley Greenway

For something a bit more chill and to perhaps bring your bicycle is one choice and well, the Roanoke Valley Greenway is your scene! Anyway, this system of paved trails stretches for miles, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and even some nearby towns. Anyway, it’s ideal, you know, for a relaxed bike ride, a run, or perhaps just a walk. So, I often hop on the Greenway after work for a quick escape into nature, you know? It’s very available and is just great way to de-stress and, as a matter of fact, get some exercise simultaneously. There’s something for everyone here!

One year I even participated in a charitable cause ride that traveled a bit of the Greenway. Actually, I think I ended up getting connected with several individuals in the cycling community. A bit of an embarrassing story, though, since I totally wiped out right in front of the group! The good news is I managed to entertain them all while thankfully dodging any real injuries, heh. As a matter of fact, my story showcases the Greenways welcoming environment, too, it’s a nice area to meet fellow enthusiasts, actually, or even start out on new outdoors experiences. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Roanoke Valley Greenway)

3. Exploring the trails at Explore Park

A little nature can be found at Explore Park, basically situated along the Blue Ridge Parkway. So, with more than 1,100 acres, there is something for everyone here, too. Anyway, for families seeking to perhaps camp overnight to the more intrepid explorers going to try and summit challenging trail runs, you’re in for a day of fun! The park features a bunch of different trails, well then, they go up steep hills. There are various hiking experiences to look into, especially to go out and enjoy a good overlook. There is something here for everyone! I would check the park maps to be a little familiar with what is open and available, of course, but with the correct footwear and preparations you are definitely to enjoy whatever is in store for you, basically just getting there is a beautiful experience.

So, I took my younger sibling on one of Explore Park’s most known difficult trails! Really, he wasn’t exceptionally prepared, but, definitely, a few miles in it seemed like he got his groove and really took it to the next level. This happened while on our traverse, and my more youthful sibling, still not very capable, slipped on a very steep slope, sending stones down into an open space. So, with caution, it was a decent scene. As a matter of fact, Explore Park made us go into outside exercises a little bit more and better too. Explore Park Full Review and Details

4. Kayaking or Canoeing on the Upper James River Water Trail

I tell you, in case you’re into water sports, paddling along the Upper James River Water Trail tends to be an experience to check out and, really, it is just pretty relaxing! As a matter of fact, a ton of local rental shops actually offer kayaks and canoes, well then, making it very simple to go on an excursion. Anyhow, the river will move gently, it is actually encompassed by some pretty nice scenes, and it is also an extremely unwinding way, by the way, to invest some energy outside. As I would like to think the best parts are between spring to just about fall. You see this a lot, though, to enjoy it, too.

So, I keep in mind when I went with my sweetheart last spring, very clearly, to praise our commemoration. We thought about doing the most relaxed route of the Upper James River trail, of course, but she didn’t really want to put in the energy. Now that I recall it, we even saw some turtles! This activity actually provided us with some time of true appreciation while it gave us a great outside date. Actually, try this if you need time to truly breathe! See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Upper James River)

5. Fishing at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve happens to be, it could be argued, a haven for fishermen, but it might be something you consider! Well then, this large repository will probably draw you in! Anyway, it is also a great place for basically just some rest and some unwinding! Anyhow, they’re a lot of pike swimming around and basically it should provide a very unforgettable fishing venture for both anglers and novices. But, make sure, I feel like, to perhaps check the grant needs previously. As I would see it this region makes the most of what Roanoke has going. Actually, this location can assist you, you know, loosen up. It’s true what they say, fishing is kind of therapy, actually!

Just a couple of years ago, so, me and my buddies had a fishing competition at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve. We ended up being there early but we saw that another local fishermen came in clutch by managing to catch an actually impressive size Pike fish. So, actually, this was cool because his enthusiasm lit a fire up our competitive spirits to get the win that day! However, so, while the big fella he caught ultimately lost (to yours truly), it was more or less his enthusiasm, anyway, it had pumped me to land several catches so that, eventually, I would get that prize for largest catch that day. Carvins Cove Full Review and Details