Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke, Virginia, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Known as “Star City of the South,” this vibrant town is surrounded by a network of breathtaking trails that showcase the region’s natural beauty. From panoramic mountain vistas to stunning waterfalls, Roanoke has something for every hiker. Whether you’re up for a tough climb or just want a relaxing walk in the forest, these trails are sure to leave you with some unforgettable memories.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best hiking trails near Roanoke, each offering its own unique charm and appeal. These trails highlight the area’s diverse landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Get ready to discover why Roanoke is a top destination for outdoor adventurers!
10 Best Hiking Trails Near Roanoke, VA
I’ve put together a list of the 10 best hiking trails near Roanoke, Virginia, starting with those closest to the city and working outward. Having hiked six of these trails myself, I can honestly say each one offers something special that makes it stand out. It’s tough to pick a favorite! But before we dive into the top 10, here’s a quick look at some of my personal favorite hikes:
- Best Overall: McAfee Knob
- Most Fun Hike: Dragon’s Tooth
- Best for Sunrise: McAfee Knob and Sharp Top (Buzzard’s Roost)
- Best Fall Hikes: Tinker Cliffs and Harkening Hill/Johnson Farm
Ok, let’s get into the 10 best hiking trails near Roanoke, Virginia!!
1. Star Trail
The Star Trail takes you up to the famous Roanoke Star, the largest man-made illuminated star in the world. The climb is relatively short but moderately steep, making it a great option for those looking for a bit of a challenge with a big payoff.
Once you reach the top, you’re treated to panoramic views of Roanoke and the surrounding mountains – perfect for a photo op or a peaceful moment to take in the scenery.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 3 miles (8-minute drive)
Length: 3.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 780 feet
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 2 to 2.5 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
2. McAfee Knob
McAfee Knob, one of Virginia’s most iconic hikes, features a stunning rock overhang with panoramic views of the Catawba Valley. It’s a must-see spot on the Appalachian Trail.
This is a very popular hike, so make sure to get there early to snag a parking spot! I personally recommend watching sunrise from McAfee Knob. It’ll be an unforgettable experience!
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 15 miles (25-minute drive)
Length: 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,700 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
3. Dragon’s Tooth
Dragon’s Tooth is a thrilling and challenging adventure! This hike takes you through rugged terrain, leading to a unique rock formation that resembles a dragon’s tooth. The climb is steep, with some sections requiring scrambling, but the effort is well worth it for the breathtaking views from the top.
This is a very popular hike, so make sure to get there early to snag a parking spot!
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 20 miles (25-minute drive)
Length: 4.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,250 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 2.5 to 4 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
4. Tinker Cliffs
Tinker Cliffs is a rewarding hike offering some of the best views in the area. This challenging trek takes you along the Appalachian Trail, leading to dramatic cliffs that overlook the Catawba Valley. The panoramic views from Tinker Cliffs make it a must-do for hikers looking to experience both natural beauty and a bit of adventure.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 25 miles (35-minute drive)
Length: 7.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 2,000 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 4 to 6 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
5. Sharp Top Mountain
Rising to an elevation of 3,875 feet, Sharp Top Mountain is a popular hiking destination, offering stunning panoramic views that captivate visitors. Known for its challenging yet rewarding trail, Sharp Top draws hikers of all skill levels in search of an unforgettable adventure. The summit’s vistas are particularly mesmerizing at sunrise and sunset.
Sharp Top is the most popular of the three iconic peaks in the Peaks of Otter region, alongside Flat Top and Harkening Hill. Not only do you get incredible views from Sharp Top’s summit, but the trail passes by Buzzard’s Roost, a rocky outcrop that provides even more stunning views, heightening the excitement of the journey.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 30 miles (50-minute drive)
Length: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
✨ Sharp Top Complete Hiking Guide
6. Harkening Hill and Johnson Farm
The Harkening Hill loop trail winds through lush forests, leading to a summit with peaceful views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you can explore the historic Johnson Farm, a preserved homestead showcasing Appalachian life in the 19th century.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 30 miles (50-minute drive)
Length: 4 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Route Type: Loop
Hiking Time: 2 to 3 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Harkening Hill/Johnson Farm Trail Map
7. Stiles Falls
Stiles Falls is a beautiful hike that takes you through lush forest to a stunning, secluded waterfall. The path is moderately challenging, making it a great option for hikers of all skill levels. As you approach the falls, the sound of rushing water grows louder, and the sight of the cascading waterfall is a perfect reward for your efforts.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 35 miles (45-minute drive)
Length: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 350 feet
Difficulty: Moderately challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
8. Apple Orchard Falls
Apple Orchard Falls offers a scenic hike to a majestic 200-foot cascade. The trail winds through vibrant forests, offering beautiful views and seasonal wildflowers.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 35 miles (1 hour drive)
Length: 2.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
9. Roaring Run Trail
The Roaring Run Trail is a short, scenic hike that follows the Roaring Run Creek. The highlight of the hike is the Roaring Run Falls, a stunning 30-foot waterfall that’s especially beautiful after a rainfall. The peaceful atmosphere and short distance make it a great option for families or anyone looking to enjoy a tranquil escape in nature.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 40 miles (55-minute drive)
Length: 1.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 300 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Route Type: Loop
Hiking Time: 1 to 1.5 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
10. Devil’s Marbleyard
Devil’s Marbleyard is a unique hiking destination featuring a massive boulder field surrounded by rugged mountain scenery. This adventurous trail rewards climbers with stunning panoramic views.
Distance from Roanoke, VA: 50 miles (1 hour drive)
Length: 3.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Route Type: Out-and-back
Hiking Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours
Pet-friendly? Yes, must be on leash
Best Time to Hike near Roanoke, VA
The best time to hike near Roanoke, Virginia, largely depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. Spring and fall are particularly popular seasons, with mild temperatures and stunning scenery.
In spring, you’ll enjoy vibrant wildflowers and lush green forests, while fall offers spectacular foliage with the Blue Ridge Mountains turning into a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows.
Summer can be a great time to hike as well, especially for those seeking longer days and warmer weather, but be prepared for higher temperatures, occasional humidity, and bugs. Hiking early in the morning or later in the day is ideal to avoid the heat (and crowds).
✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors
Winter offers quieter trails and the chance to see the landscape dusted with snow, though some higher-elevation trails may be more challenging or even closed due to snow and ice. Make sure you check the weather beforehand and bring the right gear for icy conditions.
Overall, spring and fall are the most comfortable and visually stunning times to hike near Roanoke, but each season has its own unique charm!
Hiking Tips and What to Bring
Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
Be Physically Prepared: Some of the hikes mentioned above can be quite challenging. It’s a good idea to train for the harder hikes by strength training and completing cardio exercises for endurance.
Footwear and Gear: Some trails will have lots of rocky sections and steps, so wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots). Also, hiking poles may be beneficial on the steep/rocky parts, especially when descending. Make sure you wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
Sun Protection: Even though most of these hikes take you through a shaded forest, it’s always smart to take extra precautions and protect yourself from the sun, so wear sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within Virginia’s mountains. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.
Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep Virginia’s mountains pristine for future hikers.
Pack the 10 Essentials:
- Navigation – A map, compass, or GPS device to help you stay on course and find your way in unfamiliar terrain.
- Water – Sufficient water to stay hydrated, along with a filtration system or purification tablets if you plan to refill from natural sources.
- Food – Energy-rich snacks or meals to keep your energy levels up during the hike.
- First-Aid Kit – A basic first-aid kit with items like bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
- Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
- Insulation – Extra layers of clothing (such as a jacket or fleece) to stay warm in changing weather conditions.
- Rain Gear and Emergency Shelter – A rain jacket or poncho and an emergency bivy sack or space blanket for shelter in case of sudden weather changes.
- Fire – A lighter, matches, or fire starter to help you build a fire for warmth or signaling in case of emergency.
- Multi-tool or Knife – A versatile tool or knife to handle any tasks, from preparing food to making repairs.
- Headlamp/Flashlight – A reliable light source with extra batteries, in case you end up hiking in the dark or need it for emergency situations.
More Fun Adventures near Roanoke, VA
Biking Trails: Roanoke offers great mountain biking options, like Carvins Cove with over 60 miles of trails, ranging from easy loops to challenging routes. Mill Mountain Park, right in the city, has both moderate and tough trails, including a climb to the famous Roanoke Star, offering stunning views of the area.
Climbing Locations: For climbing, Dragon’s Tooth is a must-visit, known for its spire-like formation and thrilling scrambles. Nearby, the Hanging Rock area offers both bouldering and traditional climbing routes, with beautiful views and varied difficulty levels.
Other Adventure Sports: There are plenty of adventure sports like kayaking and canoeing on the Roanoke and James rivers, as well as white-water rafting on the New and Gauley Rivers. For a different experience, try ziplining at Treetop Quest offering an aerial view of the surrounding forests.
Blue Ridge Parkway: This is a popular, scenic drive with breathtaking mountain views, especially appealing in the fall. Along the way, enjoy overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic sites, making it perfect for a leisurely drive or day of exploration.
Swimming Spots: Smith Mountain Lake, just southeast of Roanoke, offers great swimming and boating. For a quieter spot, check out natural swimming holes in the Jefferson National Forest, like around Roaring Run Falls, where you can cool off in the summer heat.
Walking Tours of Downtown Roanoke: Explore Roanoke’s downtown on walking tours of the historic district, City Market, and local murals. These tours highlight the city’s architecture, vibrant culture, and artistic spirit, offering a fun and educational way to experience the area.
Backpacking Trails:
- Triple Crown of Virginia is the most popular backpacking route near Roanoke, including Dragon’s Tooth, Tinker Cliffs, and McAfee Knob for a 35-mile roundtrip trek.
- Jefferson National Forest and George Washington National Forest offer many trails with chances for backpacking.
- If you don’t mind the drive, head to Mount Rogers National Recreational Area for amazing backpacking trails.
Conclusion
Roanoke, Virginia is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts, offering an array of trails that cater to all levels of experience. From the iconic views atop McAfee Knob to the rugged challenges of Dragon’s Tooth, the area’s hiking trails provide stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable vistas.
With its proximity to the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail, it’s easy to see why Roanoke is a top destination for hikers. Lace up your boots, hit the trails, and discover the natural beauty that makes this region a hiker’s haven.
If this guide inspires you to hike any of the incredible trails near Roanoke, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
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