The best hikes from bus stations in Roanoke city
4.1
(14)
333
hikers
9
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in Roanoke city offer access to the diverse landscapes of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The region is characterized by rolling hills, the Roanoke River, and extensive greenway systems, providing varied terrain for hikers. Trails often feature views of the surrounding mountains and connect to natural preserves and city parks.
Best bus station hiking trails in Roanoke city
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Roanoke River Greenway – Roanoke River Greenway loop from Roanoke,…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
6
hikers
1.96km
00:30
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
hikers
5.42km
01:22
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5
hikers
11.4km
03:13
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
7.24km
01:53
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
7.02km
02:07
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Parking area at the bottom is closed (Near Dollar General). We parked across the street and walked the gravel up to Star Trail Trailhead.
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The Memorial Bridge of Roanoke supports the Roanoke River Greenway and has wide sidewalks on both sides of the car lanes that bikes use. The bridge has two-lane traffic and spans 785 feet across the Roanoke River. While riding here, pay attention and find all five plaques, with quotes from Patrick Henry, Theodore Roosevelt, Stonewall Jackson, and Thomas Jefferson. The last plaque has the names of World War I victims.
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The greenway is an easily accessible multi-use trail that runs along the Roanoke River. There are multiple points of access and a number of nice parks along its route. It can get busy with cyclists, walkers, and runners though so be aware of your fellow trail users.
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Wasena Park is a green space along the Roanoke River. The Roanoke River Greenway bike-friendly path runs through the park, and the park offers a playground, two picnic shelters, the Roanoke Skate Park, a baseball diamond, a basketball court, ADA-accessible picnic shelters with tables, lights at night, electrical outlets, and grills, as well as ADA-accessible restrooms.
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The greenway is an easily accessible multi-use trail that runs along the Roanoke River. There are multiple points of access and a number of nice parks along its route. It can get busy with cyclists, walkers, and runners though so be aware of your fellow trail users.
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The brightly illuminated star that sits on top of Mill Mountain (1,703ft/519m) was constructed in 1949, and initially meant to only be lit during Christmas season. However, it proved to be so popular that is is now lit year round and gave the city of Roanoke its nickname, "Star City of the South".
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The top of Mill Mountain (1,703 ft) is the ideal place to get a nice sight of Roanoke. It is the ideal place to go enjoy a calm Sunday morning with friends, family or by yourself! It has a little zoo, a little wildflower garden and a large picnic area. The jewel of Mill Mountain is the biggest man-made illuminated star. Lit for the first time in 1949 with the purpose of attracting clients to the businesses of Roanoke, it has now become a landmark that brightens the city's nights.
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The summit of Mill Mountain has an overlook of the city of Roanoke as well as the world's largest illuminated free-standing star.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations in Roanoke?
There are 8 curated hiking routes in Roanoke that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate difficulty levels, allowing you to explore the city's natural beauty without needing a car.
What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible trails in Roanoke?
The trails accessible by bus in Roanoke offer a diverse range of terrain. You'll find relatively flat, paved sections along the Roanoke River Greenway, as well as more challenging ascents and descents on routes like the Mill Mountain loop, which takes you up to the iconic Roanoke Star. Expect a mix of urban greenways and natural forest paths.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes reachable by bus in Roanoke?
Yes, several easy routes are suitable for families. The Roanoke River Greenway loop is a great option, offering a gentle, mostly flat path along the river. Another accessible and easy choice is the Memorial Bridge loop, perfect for a shorter outing.
What are the best trails for scenic viewpoints accessible by bus?
For stunning panoramic views, the Mill Mountain loop is highly recommended. This route leads you to the Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain, offering expansive vistas of the city and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Another route, the Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain – Mill Mountain loop, also provides excellent viewpoints.
Can I find circular hiking routes from bus stations in Roanoke?
Yes, all 8 of the bus-accessible hiking routes in this guide are circular, meaning you'll end your hike back near your starting point, making them convenient for public transport users. Examples include the Roanoke River Greenway loop and the Stone Mountain loop.
What interesting landmarks or natural features can I see along these bus-accessible trails?
Along these trails, you can encounter several notable features. The Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain is a prominent landmark, offering incredible views. The Roanoke River Greenway itself is a beautiful natural corridor. You'll also pass through areas like Mill Mountain and potentially spot the Chestnut Ridge forest.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Roanoke?
The komoot community rates hiking in Roanoke highly, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of trails from the city, the beautiful views from Mill Mountain, and the peaceful escape offered by the Roanoke River Greenway, even within city limits.
Are there any moderate difficulty trails accessible by bus for a longer hike?
Yes, if you're looking for a more challenging experience, the Stone Mountain loop is a moderate route spanning over 11 kilometers. Another moderate option is the Mill Mountain – Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain loop, which offers a good workout with significant elevation gain.
What is the best time of year to hike these bus-accessible trails in Roanoke?
Roanoke, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage. Summer is pleasant, especially on shaded trails, and winter can offer crisp, clear views, though some paths might be slippery. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any specific trails that offer a good mix of nature and urban views?
The routes around Mill Mountain, such as the Mill Mountain – Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain loop, perfectly blend natural forest paths with expansive views of the Roanoke cityscape. Similarly, the Roanoke River Greenway loop provides a natural escape right alongside the city's riverfront.
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