Lace up your hiking boots, grab your rucksack, and get ready to explore over 700 miles of hiking trails in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. The iconic Roanoke Region, with its rolling blue-hued mountains, pristine rivers, and urban treks offer a treasure trove of trails that wind through some of the most captivating landscapes on the East Coast.
Top-Tier Treks
A must-do for serious hiking enthusiasts is the Virginia Triple Crown, which showcases three of the most iconic hikes on the Appalachian Trail – Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs. All three of these hikes provide scenic views of the surrounding mountain landscape, and are a great way to see the autumnal colors. McAfee Knob, in particular, is a popular hike that offers unique photo opportunities thanks to its large rock outcroppings. Due to overcrowding, it is recommended to take the special shuttle service to the parking area. This an important new initiative and service that is helping to prevent congestion at the trailhead. McAfee Knob Shuttle Schedule & Tickets.
There are plenty of easy hiking trails for kids as well! Roaring Run Recreation Area in Botetourt County, Waid Recreation Park in Franklin County, and Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail in Salem are great places for leisurely, family friendly strolls.
A Metro Mountain Adventure
As the largest metropolitan area in western Virginia, the Roanoke region offers plenty of outdoor recreation, in addition to hiking. Over 1,000 miles of trails also offer excellent biking and paddling opportunities, and fall is a great time to get on the water. Paddle scenic spots like the Upper James River Water Trail, Roanoke River Blueway, and Smith Mountain Lake to see the changing leaves from a different perspective. For a weekend family getaway, Roanoke County’s Explore Park has access to the Roanoke River, abundant trails, ziplining at Treetop Quest, dining at Twin Creeks Brewpub, and campsites and cabins for an overnight stay.
Make it a true metro mountain adventure by discovering Downtown Salem, which is easily accessible from all three Triple Crown hikes. Enjoy great craft beer at Parkway Brewing Company and Olde Salem Brewing Company, check out the delicious food & cocktails at the new Brood Restaurant & Bar, and book an overnight stay at one of the two boutique hotels located downtown – The Lofts at Downtown Salem and The Rowland Hotel.
Cover Photo: McAfee Knob Fall – Rochelle Masudal – Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge
