Hey Roanoke, it’s Bike Month and time to dust off your bike and hit the pavement (or trail)! One of the biggest perks of living here is our incredible network of greenways, mountain bike trails, and a vibrant biking community. We’re all about two-wheeled fun, so we’ve gathered some awesome ways to make this Bike Month the most epic one yet!
1.Calling All Future Champions: The Tiny Tot Tri!
Mark your calendars for May 19! Calling all little athletes from age 2-5 – it’s time to run, bike, and splash your way to the finish line at the cutest (and maybe silliest) event Elmwood Park has ever seen: The Tiny Tot Tri! This is the perfect way to introduce your kiddos to the joy of competition and the outdoors.
2. Give Back and Ride Strong: Volunteer for Trail Work!
Loving our trails is just as important as riding them! Join us on May 21 for a volunteer trail work day. We’ll be tackling maintenance projects on Roanoke’s beloved trails, ensuring they stay smooth and enjoyable for everyone. Roanoke Parks and Recreation will provide the tools – you just bring your sturdy shoes, water, work gloves, and some enthusiasm for creating and maintaining the incredible network we all love.
3. Spot Some Feathered Friends on the Birding Bicycle Tour!
Sometimes, it’s not all about speed – it’s about appreciating the beauty around you. Our Birding Bicycle Tour on May 24 is the perfect way to combine your love of cycling with a bit of birdwatching. This low-impact tour is ideal for beginners and experienced birders alike. Starting near sunrise (when the birds are most active), we’ll pedal a leisurely 3 miles, stopping along the way at three parks to admire Roanoke’s amazing avian residents.
4. Break Out of Your Routine: Explore a New section of the Greenway!
We all have our favorite routes, but Bike Month is the perfect time to break out of your comfort zone and explore a new section of Roanoke’s extensive greenway system. (Check out our recent Instagram reels to see highlights of the Lick Run Greenway!) Grab your helmet, hop on your bike, and discover a hidden gem in Roanoke’s green network.
5. Conquer New Trails at Carvins Cove or Mill Mountain!
Feeling adventurous? Mountain bike enthusiasts, rejoice! With a vast network of trails at Carvins Cove and Mill Mountain, there’s a challenge waiting for every skill level. Test your mettle on the rock-filled excitement of Carvins Cove’s Rock and Roll trail, or cruise through the scenic beauty of Enchanted Forest. Mill Mountain also offers a variety of options, with the flowy Woodthrush Trail, perfect for those seeking something different.
So, there you have it – a jam-packed calendar of events and ideas to make this Bike Month unforgettable! Get out there, explore Roanoke’s incredible network of trails, and celebrate the joy of cycling!
