Mill Mountain Park

Biking on Mill Mountain

There are amazing mountain biking trails just minutes from Downtown Roanoke at Mill Mountain Park.

Visitors often recognize Mill Mountain as the "mountain with the big star on top of it," which is the Roanoke Star.

Operated and maintained by the City of Roanoke's Parks & Recreation Department, Mill Mountain Park offers over 650 acres of mountaintop outdoor space and nearly 10 miles of trails.

It's close proximity to the city center, as well as easy access from the Blue Ridge Parkway, makes Mill Mountain one of the most popular spots for mountain biking in Virginia's Blue Ridge.

While most of the trails are considered moderate to more difficult, the short length makes the trails challenging but manageable. The longest trail (Wood Thrush Trail) is 1.9 miles, and many of the other trail segments are between 1/2 - 1 mile.

Popular Trails

• Monument: A 1.5 mile trail that can be enjoyed in either direction, whether you're looking for a long climb or fun descent. Can also be turned into a fun loop ride when combined with Riser, Big Sunny and the Mill Mountain Greenway.
• Ridgeline: A steep ride of 1.3 miles that could involve some hiking with your bike if you're making the ascent. Coming down? Hold on tight and enjoy the ride!
• Riser & Big Sunny: As two shorter trails, many riders combine Riser and Big Sunny for a run ride that's just under 1 mile. Beginning near the top of the mountain where Riser connects with Ridgeline is a common starting point for this segment.
• Wood Thrush: The longest trail on the mountain at 1.6 miles. It winds along the southern side of Mill Mountain and highlights the beauty of the woods.

Ride up Mill Mountain
*This is a combination of trails that can be combined to give the opportunity to start at the base of Mill Mountain and make your way to the top.

Begin at the Walnut Street Bridge at the base of the mountain. Take Walnut Avenue up the mountain and follow the signs for the Mill Mountain Greenway, which leads to the Big Sunny Trail. Follow Big Sunny until you turn on the Riser Trail and follow it to the Ridgeline Trail. Turn left onto Ridgeline Trail and head up the mountain until you reach Prospect Road and follow it to the Roanoke Star.

Group & Guided Rides

Going for a ride at Mill Mountain Park with the Blue Ridge Off-Road Cyclists group is a great way to experience the trails. You can also book a guided experience and arrange bike rentals through Roanoke Mountain Adventures.

Hours & Parking

Mill Mountain Park is open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

There are multiple options for parking around the park. Visitors can park on top of the mountain at lots beside the Discovery Center or near the Roanoke Star. There is also parking available at the intersection of J.P. Fishburn Parkway & Prospect Road, as well as at the base of the mountain off Riverland Road.

Mill Mountain Park Trail Map

Download this PDF map that was created by PLAY Roanoke to help you plan your next trip to Mill Mountain Park.

Each trail is color coded and the key provides helpful information about length, usage, and difficulty levels.

There are also markers for parking and other places of interest on Mill Mountain, including the zoo, star and information kiosk.

What's Nearby?

Mill Mountain Park isn't just for hiking and biking. It's also home to the Mill Mountain Zoo, Discovery Center, and the iconic Roanoke Star. A short drive down the mountain also leads to the excitement of Downtown Roanoke and connects you to the Roanoke River Greenway.

Bike Shops & Rentals: UnderDog Bikes | Roanoke Mountain Adventures
Bike-Friendly Lodging: Ramada Conference Center | The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center

Looking for more mountain biking opportunities? Our mountain biking section features information on the hundreds of miles of great trails in Virginia's Blue Ridge!