Roanoke Outdoor Itinerary

Outdoor Itinerary for Virginia's Blue Ridge

The Roanoke Valley in Virginia's Blue Ridge is an outdoor lover's paradise. Being located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains gives us an incredible assortment of outdoor activities and amenities.

Many of them are highlighted in this outdoor itinerary.

The region has claimed numerous recognitions and awards for its outdoor assets, including being named the Best Trail Town by Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine and one of the Most Bike-Friendly Communities in the United States by USA Today Travel.

It's easy to pack any Blue Ridge Day full of great outdoor adventures, and you'll need multiple visits to experience some of the best the region has to offer.

We also have many outdoor-related lodging options, including cabins, camping, and resorts.

The following is a three-day guide that features all kinds of outdoor experiences in Virginia's Blue Ridge.

Leave No Trace - Virginia's Blue Ridge

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Please remember to follow the 7 Principles of Leave No Trace to help minimize the impact on our local trails and public lands.

1. Plan Ahead & Prepare
2. Travel & Camp on Durable Surfaces
3. Dispose of Waste Properly
4. Leave What You Find
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts
6. Respect Wildlife
7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Day One

• Make your way around the Roanoke Valley on two wheels by taking advantage of the great biking in the region. Popular routes include Carvins Cove, trails on Mill Mountain, Explore Park, and the Roanoke Valley Greenways. Bike rentals and guided services are available through Roanoke Mountain Adventures.

• Go on a geocaching hunt in Downtown Roanoke.

• Partake in a challenging round of golf on one of the beautiful courses in the area, such as Hanging Rock or Westlake Golf & Country Club.

• Unwind with drinks and some good times at our great local craft breweries.

Day Two

• Swing by a farmers market to get everything you need for a picnic lunch.

• Spend the day on the water with a kayaking, canoeing, or rafting adventure with Twin River Outfitters in Botetourt County.

• Have dinner at one of the fantastic local restaurants in Virginia's Blue Ridge that features outdoor dining, such as Fork in the Alley, Beamer's 25, or The Green Goat.

• Finish the night with a trip to the Roanoke Star & Overlook for a gorgeous view of the city from the top of Mill Mountain.

Day Three

• Lace up your boots and hike McAfee Knob, one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail, or to the beautiful Roaring Run Falls in Botetourt County.

• The extra-adventurous can also take on the nearby Dragon's Tooth hike.

• Explore the underground with a visit to Dixie Caverns.

• Enjoy the outdoors from a different perspective by taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway to Floyd, an eclectic town with a funky arts, cultural and food scene.

For more opportunities and ideas on things to do, visit our section on Outdoor Adventures in Virginia's Blue Ridge.