Join us for an exhilarating adventure at the 1st Annual Happy Valley Grit Gravel Race, taking place amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Carvins Cove in Roanoke, Virginia on December 10th, 2023. This event promises an unforgettable day of cycling and camaraderie for riders of all skill levels and a chance to explore the scenic […]
Most folks have been to the star, some have even hiked to it. But, have you ever thought of doing it at night? If you are night-hike curious but would like to go with a group, then this hike is for you! We’ll even learn about the history of Mill Mountain as we travel and […]
(18+, 14+ with adult) Carvins Cove, for many of us living in Roanoke, is our weekend getaway adventure or our post work playground, but have you ever wondered what was there before you were hiking through the Enchanted Forest or how the trails got their name? Carvins Cove’s history can be found online or in […]
Experience the magic of winter with our specially crafted adventure that combines a refreshing 2.5-mile out-and-back hike along Ingalls Overlook Trail, a delicious local lunch, and a soothing soak in the historic newly re-opened Warm Springs Pool. Im-immerses yourself in the beauty of the season while indulging in local flavors and relaxing in natural mineral-rich […]
Experience the magic of winter with our specially crafted adventure that combines a refreshing 2.5-mile out-and-back hike along Ingalls Overlook Trail, a delicious local lunch, and a soothing soak in the historic newly re-opened Warm Springs Pool. Im-immerses yourself in the beauty of the season while indulging in local flavors and relaxing in natural mineral-rich […]
This group is a low-impact hiking club, offering leisure-paced hikes for adults 50+. Must be in good physical condition to participate; ability to walk 3+ miles on uneven terrain. We will have the chance to explore several different locations throughout Roanoke. Program fee includes transportation and leadership. Price: $20 per session Time: 9am - 12pm […]
(18+, 16+ with adult) The NOLS Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course will help you prepare for the unexpected. This fast paced, hands-on training is designed to meet the needs of trip leaders, camp staff, outdoor enthusiasts and individuals working in remote locations. It will introduce you to caring for people who become ill or injured […]
This group is a low-impact hiking club, offering leisure-paced hikes for adults 50+. Must be in good physical condition to participate; ability to walk 3+ miles on uneven terrain. We will have the chance to explore several different locations throughout Roanoke. Program fee includes transportation and leadership. Price: $20 per session Time: 9am - 12pm […]
This group is a low-impact hiking club, offering leisure-paced hikes for adults 50+. Must be in good physical condition to participate; ability to walk 3+ miles on uneven terrain. We will have the chance to explore several different locations throughout Roanoke. Program fee includes transportation and leadership. Price: $20 per session Time: 9am - 12pm […]
Have you ever wanted to go camping in one of the many wilderness areas around Roanoke, but you felt you didn’t know what to bring or how to set it up? Have you had a disastrous camping experience in the past? Well Parks & Rec is here to help. In this workshop, our instructors will […]
Join City of Roanoke Parks & Rec and The Roanoke Diversity Center for a truly unique experience. We are going wild caving. Virginia is home to more 4,000 caves and caverns. Wild caving means no lights but the ones you bring, no marked paths, no hand rails, but loads of adventure. Our guides will take […]
What better way to round out the Summer kick-off of Queer Adventure Club than to hang out around a bonfire and enjoy the community we built over the course of PRIDE Month. Join Roanoke City Parks & Rec and the Roanoke Diversity Center for a chill night of S'mores, drinks, and tie dye. We have […]
Join our instructors and photography Rich Davis on a hike with the focus on photographing landscapes. This photo trip will cover topics such as, when and how to use a tripod, how to compose a compelling shot, and adjusting your camera settings on the fly, because conditions in the outdoors can change quickly. Register at […]
Join Parks & Rec and the Roanoke Diversity Center at Peaks Retreat & Adventure Center and enjoy a true summer camp experience. You can cruise on the zipline, weave through the canoe maze, and try to hit the bullseye at the archery range, or chill by the pool. Don’t forget the ice cream social. Lunch […]
Join the City of Roanoke and the Roanoke Diversity Center for a downriver float and paddle of the Roanoke River on SUPs (Stand Up Paddleboards). This section of river is very calm, which will give participants the opportunity to get comfortable on the boards during the paddle, whether you want to sit, kneel, or stand. […]
Join Parks & Recreation for a gorgeous hike at the headwaters of North Creek, to the top of Apple Orchard Falls. This 6 mile loop takes you through two gorges on either side of Backbone Ridge. The flowing water cools the air and makes for amazing scenery as you hike, and it is all capped […]
(18+, 16+ with adult) Bryce Resort simplifies uphill climbs with a ski lift, allowing for more time to enjoy downhill trails and thrilling experiences. Plus, Play Roanoke has you covered with a shuttle service to transport you and your bike to Bryce for the day. This is the perfect opportunity for beginners to dive into […]
(18+, 10+ with adult) Come learn everything you need to know to get started in the exciting sport of Stand Up Paddleboarding. "SUP". Our instructor will help you learn one on one, the proper stance for balance and control, essential paddle strokes and other techniques. Courses will be held on calm water, and no experience […]
(18+, 14+ with an adult) Join fellow trail enthusiasts—hikers, bikers, and equestrians—to maintain the trails at Carvins Cove. These workdays will be administered by Roanoke Parks and Recreation and will work on maintenance projects on our current trails. Roanoke Parks and Recreation will provide the tools, just show up with sturdy shoes, water, work gloves, […]
Grab you camera and join a professional photographer for in person, in the field instruction. This workshop will cover photographing water in different ways. Whether you want to get that hazy image blur to convey the motion of the water or freeze the water in place, your instructors will help you learn how to use […]
(18+,10+ with adult) Join us for an evening paddle to learn the basics of kayaking and explore the Cove. We will have you paddling off into the sunset in no time! Equipment and leadership provided. Participants must be able to swim. Please note: Parent or guardian must be present on this trip for participants under […]
Morningside Short Track XC Mountain Bike Bash promises an adrenaline-packed spectacle as riders power up steep, punchy climbs to muscle for position before plunging into twisty, roller-coaster-style single track. The course is a thrilling 2-plus mile loop, and it will deliver all the excitements that mountain biking offers, demanding competitors to complete multiple laps. The […]
(18+, 16+ with adult) Bryce Resort simplifies uphill climbs with a ski lift, allowing for more time to enjoy downhill trails and thrilling experiences. Plus, Play Roanoke has you covered with a shuttle service to transport you and your bike to Bryce for the day. This is the perfect opportunity for beginners to dive into […]
Fall bird migration is in full swing, and this hike puts you right in the middle of a major flyway. Hike to the observatory and watch the skies for eagles, hawks, & falcons making their way south. Bring a pair of binoculars. Don't have one? Let us know and we can bring a pair for […]
Most people think of the movie Dirty Dancing when they think of Mountain Lake or the lake that is sometimes a lake. That being said some of the best hiking trails in the state can be found at Mountain Lake. So if you are a fan of Patrick Swayze or love 360-degree views then come […]
