Safe, Uncrowded Outdoor Activities for Social Distancing in Virginia's Blue Ridge
As communities unite to combat COVID-19, staying home is the best way to protect each other. When heading outdoors for exercise, prioritize social distancing by keeping at least 6 feet from others, avoiding crowds, group activities, and high-touch surfaces to minimize germ spread.
Opt for lesser-known spots over popular areas like the Appalachian Trail or Mill Mountain Park. Note that many public restrooms are closed, so pack out all trash and avoid public bins to ease the burden on understaffed parks. See these tips from Roanoke Outside for guidance.
Website data shows strong interest in outdoor options in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. We recommend avoiding crowded spots like McAfee Knob and Dragon’s Tooth (per the Appalachian Trail Conservancy) and suggest these quieter alternatives for safe activity.
Creek Fishing in Botetourt County: North Creek, Roaring Run
The George Washington & Jefferson National Forest offers secluded natural spots. In Botetourt County, try trout fishing at North Creek or Roaring Run Creek.
More Info: Roaring Run > | North Creek >
Franklin County Gravel Grinding Trinity
For gravel bike enthusiasts, tackle the Franklin County Gravel Grinding Trinity by Franklin County Parks & Recreation. This free series includes three routes (45-65 miles) highlighting scenic back roads. Complete all three online-registered rides for a complimentary t-shirt.
Learn More: Gravel Grinding Trinity Routes >
Paddling the Upper James River Water Trail & Roanoke River Blueway
Paddling solo on rivers like the Upper James River Water Trail or Roanoke River Blueway ensures easy social distancing amid spring blooms. De-stress with suggested itineraries and access points.
Note: Twin River Outfitters on the James River in Botetourt County is open with full COVID-19 precautions, offering paddling trips & services >
Learn More: Upper James River Water Trail Itineraries > | Roanoke River Blueway Map >
Mountain Biking in Jefferson National Forest: Hoop Hole, North Mountain Trail, Dody Ridge
Beyond fishing, Jefferson National Forest excels for mountain biking in America’s East Coast Mountain Biking Capital. Challenge yourself on uncrowded trails like Hoop Hole and North Mountain, or the 40+ mile MTB Project – Blue Ridge Parkway Epic Loop.
MTB Project Route Info: Hoop Hole > | North Mountain > | Blue Ridge Parkway Epic >
Alternative Hikes: Grassy Hill Nature Preserve, Happy Hollow Gardens, Smart View Recreation Area, Dogwood Glen Trail, Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve
Respect Appalachian Trail Conservancy guidance by skipping McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth, Tinker Cliffs, Hay Rock, Sharp Top Mountain, and Star Trail. Lesser-known gems await.
Explore azaleas at Happy Hollow Gardens in Roanoke County, the waterfall at Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve (no dogs), views from Smart View Recreation Area on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Philpott Lake via Dogwood Glen Trail, or Rocky Mount from Grassy Hill Natural Area Preserve in Franklin County.
More Information: Grassy Hill > | Happy Hollow Gardens > | Smart View Recreation Area > | Bottom Creek Gorge > | Dogwood Glen Trail >
Discover more: Underrated Hiking Trails in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >
Road Cycling: Springwood Loop (Botetourt), Three Peaks Loop (Roanoke Co.), Salem Bike Route
Virginia’s Blue Ridge roads through farms and mountains are cycling havens. Try family-friendly Salem Bike Route, scenic 30+ mile Springwood Loop with James River views, or challenging Three Peaks Loop (Poor Mountain, Mount Chestnut, Sugarloaf Mountain).
Route Info: Springwood Loop > | Salem Bike Route > | Three Peaks Loop >
Scenic Drives: Blue Ridge Parkway, Route 311, Route 11, Route 116
Enjoy views from your car on routes like the Blue Ridge Parkway – America’s Favorite Drive (avoid crowded trails/overlooks per NPS). Additional options: Route 311 over Catawba Mountain, Route 116 over Windy Gap Mountain to Franklin County, Route 11 through Botetourt County.
See: Scenic Mountain Drives in Virginia’s Blue Ridge >
Picnics in Open Parks: Green Hill Park, Highland Park, Waid Recreation Area, Greenfield Recreation Park
Pair local takeout with spacious parks like Green Hill Park (Roanoke County), Highland Park (Old Southwest Roanoke), Waid Park (Franklin County), or Greenfield Recreation Park (Botetourt County). Practice Leave No Trace.
Park Info: Green Hill Park > | Highland Park > | Waid Park > | Greenfield Recreation Park >
Takeout ideas: Restaurants offering to-go service >
Running Resources: Fleet Feet Facebook Group, RunAbout Sports Virtual Race Series
Stay motivated virtually via Fleet Feet Roanoke’s Running is NOT Cancelled Facebook Group for routes and tips, or RunAbout Sports’ Virtual Race Series through May.
Learn More: Running is NOT Cancelled Facebook Group > | Virtual Race Series >
Visit our COVID-19 Landing Page for more resources. Contact us via Contact form for questions.
Stay safe and support one another.
Featured image: Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge
