Discover the Serenity of Mill Mountain Park
Explore the breathtaking beauty and outdoor adventures at Mill Mountain Park in Roanoke, Virginia, a must-visit destination for every nature lover.
Nestled in the heart of Roanoke, Virginia, Mill Mountain Park is a picturesque destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty with outdoor recreation. Spanning over 568 acres, this park is famous for its expansive trail systems, which cater to hikers, mountain bikers, and leisurely strollers alike. As you traverse the winding paths, you will be treated to stunning vistas of the Roanoke Valley and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers. One of the park's standout features is the iconic Mill Mountain Star, one of the largest illuminated stars in the world, which proudly overlooks the city. Visitors can hike to the viewing area for an unforgettable panoramic view, especially at sunset when the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors. Along the way, families can enjoy a small zoo, where children can learn about local wildlife and connect with nature in an engaging way. With well-maintained picnic areas, Mill Mountain Park is also an ideal location for families to gather and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. The park is open year-round, offering seasonal activities such as fall foliage hikes, winter snowshoeing, and spring wildflower walks. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Mill Mountain Park is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable experience for tourists of all ages.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the serene atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Bring a packed lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic picnic areas.
- Check the weather before your visit to dress appropriately for outdoor activities.
- Don’t forget your camera – the views are stunning, especially at sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the trails.
A brief summary to Mill Mountain Park
- 2198 Mill Mountain Spur, Roanoke, Virginia, 24014, US
- +1540-853-2236
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-11 pm
- Thursday 6 am-11 pm
- Friday 6 am-11 pm
- Saturday 6 am-11 pm
- Sunday 6 am-11 pm
Getting There
-
Walking
From the center of South Roanoke, head east on South Jefferson Street. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Mill Mountain Spur. Turn left onto Mill Mountain Spur. Follow this road uphill for approximately 0.5 miles (about 10-15 minutes on foot). You will see signs for Mill Mountain Park as you approach. The entrance is at 2198 Mill Mountain Spur, Roanoke, VA 24014.
-
Bicycle
If you have access to a bicycle, you can take a more scenic route. Start from South Roanoke and head north on South Jefferson Street. Take a right onto Memorial Avenue and continue until you see the Mill Mountain Park signs. This route is approximately 1 mile and will take about 10-20 minutes depending on your cycling speed. Be cautious of traffic and watch for bike-friendly paths.
-
Public Transit
If you prefer using public transportation, look for the Roanoke Valley Transit bus service. Find the nearest bus stop and take Bus Route 23, which heads towards Mill Mountain. The fare for a single trip is around $1.50. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance, as it may vary throughout the day. After disembarking, it will be a short walk of about 0.3 miles uphill along Mill Mountain Spur to reach the park entrance.
Attractions Nearby to Mill Mountain Park
- Mill Mountain Star
- Mill Mountain Discovery Center
- Mill Mountain Zoo
- Virginian RY Roanoke Station
- Optimus Prime Sculpture
- Elmwood Park
- Elmwood Park Art Walk
- Smith Park
- Downtown Roanoke, Inc.
- Center In The Square
- The Harrison Museum of African American Culture
- Roanoke Pinball Museum
- Kids Square Children's Museum
- Roanoke STARCADE
- Science Museum of Western Virginia
Landmarks nearby to Mill Mountain Park
- Virginian Railway Roanoke Yard site
- Roanoke River and Railroad Historic District
- Buena Vista
- Anthem GO Outside Festival
- Historic Alexander Gish House
- Rendezvous Studio & Events
- The Little Gallery - Art Gallery - Art Consultancy and Specialty Gifts
- Emilio's Famous Pizza and Subs
- Dr. Pepper Sign
- The Spot on Kirk
- Mill Mountain Theatre
- Market Square Plaza
- Charter Hall at the City Market Building
- Henrietta Lacks Plaza
- Market Gallery