Southwest Virginia is bursting with opportunities to get outside and explore, and more people are looking to move here to the Roanoke Valley specifically to satisfy their adventurous
spirit.

Nestled between the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, some of the region's most popular adventures are found along the abundant hiking trails that feature a wide variety of trails for different levels of adventurers! You can start out easy and then work your way on up to the longer, and sometimes more strenuous hikes.

For a low to moderate, scenic hike:

Cascade Falls trail

Source: Scott Clower/Wikipedia

This hike offers a lot of shady paths with a beautiful waterfall and surrounding pool of water that you can enjoy on a hot summer day. The hike into the falls contains several helpful runs of stairs, and the hike out is an easy stroll.

Carvins Cove Reservoir

If you would like something closer to Roanoke, the Carvins Cove Reservoir Trail is an easy trail that is open year-round.

For the next step up:

McAfee Knob

Source: Idawriter/Wikipedia

Personally, I go back to a regional favorite time and time again – the most photographed site along the Appalachian Trail, McAfee Knob!

I usually take the long, meandering way in – following the trail and enjoying the woods and nature. On the way out, I take the fire road for a more straight shot back to the car. There are so many photo opportunities along the way (not just the finish), so take your time and enjoy the adventure!

The Triple Crown loop

McAfee Knob is one of three segments that make up Virginia's Triple Crown loop. Rounding out the Triple Crown are Dragon's Tooth and Tinker Cliffs trails.

Source: Caballero1967/Wikipedia

Dragon's Tooth contains some rock climbing (assisted by climbing bars) and summits with a stunning rock formation. Tinker Cliffs are made from limestone that is over 250 million years old and offers amazing views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Learn more about Virginia's Triple Crown Loop

Peaks of Otter

Peaks of Otter offers several different options, with Sharp Top being the more popular (and often considered best views) of the Peaks of Otter hikes. Also, for those unable to make the entire ascent, a seasonal shuttle will deliver hikers to within a quarter mile of the summit and is available for a ride back down as well. More stunning views at a little higher elevation with fewer crowds are offered with the Flat Top trail.

Really wanting a challenge?

Devil's Marbleyard

Source: Karyngardner85/Wikipedia

Try what I refer to as a little 'rock scrambling' up on Devil's Marbleyard. This hike can be considered more hazardous with huge boulders to conquer on the ascent.

Want to stay in town?


Finally, there are many urban trails right in the Roanoke area! Just to name a few that I have enjoyed; Mill Mountain Star Trail, Roanoke River Greenway Trail (asphalt walkway along the Roanoke River) and Happy Hollow Gardens (especially nice when the azaleas are blooming).

There are SO many options to choose from and you can FIND YOUR PERFECT HIKE TODAY

Remember … Always hike with plenty of water and don't forget 'leave no trace' – dispose of trash properly to keep our trails looking beautiful!