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Roanoke Named to ‘Top 25 Hiking Cities in the US’ List by CNN

The Roanoke Roanoke has long been known as an outdoor enthusiast’s haven, but being featured as one of the nation’s premier hiking destinations is an extra feather in the cap.

McAfee Knob in Roanoke is the most photographed overlook on the entirety of the Appalachian Trail. Known for its stunning 270-degree view, rock outcrops, fall foliage, and epic sunsets and sunrises.

Roanoke was recently featured as one of the “25 Best Hiking Cities in the U.S.” by CNN.com. Roanoke was featured at the top of the list behind only Boise, ID. – coincidence? We don’t think so!

Proximity to assets like green spaces, hiking trails, waterfalls, and mountains played a big role in which cities made it on the list. This is one of the main things people mention when talking about the Roanoke hiking scene – some of the most beautiful hikes in the U.S. are just a 15-minute drive from downtown.

This is timely news considering the City of Roanoke just announced over 100 miles of trails and greenways within its limits, and they plan to celebrate with a trail work day and party on Mill Mountain, September 23. And that’s 100 miles solely in the urban core!

Dragon's Tooth is another famous hike along the Appalachian Trail known for fun rock scrambles and a tooth-like rock outcrop at the summit for a rewarding view of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Roanoke.

Our region collectively boasts nearly 1000 miles of trail including the Appalachian Trail, endless acres of National Parks, rail trail projects like the Jackson River Scenic Trail, and the famous greenway network of paved paths that connects neighborhoods and communities across jurisdictional lines. Making not just the City of Roanoke, but the region overall an endless playground for trail lovers.

Here’s what CNN had to say: “A stone’s throw from the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, Roanoke has so much to offer hikers of all levels, including the Appalachian Trail and the Roanoke Valley Greenways. Roanoke is also home to the Virginia Triple Crown, a trifecta of bucket list hikes, which includes Dragon’s Tooth, Tinker Cliffs and McAfee Knob. The latter is considered the most photographed spot on the entire Appalachian Trail. Roaring Run Day Use Area is another top spot, especially for families, thanks to well-shaded trails and tumbling Roaring Run Falls. While in Roanoke, take in the views from the Roanoke Star and get in a round of disc golf at Explore Park.”

See the full list and article on CNN.com