The Roanoke Region of Virginia

2. The Roanoke Region of Virginia is a premier spot for outdoor recreation. RoanokeOutside.com showcases why Roanoke is one of the best outdoor towns in the United States. The Roanoke Region consists of counties and cities at the southern end of the Shenandoah Valley nestled between the Blue Ridge and Alleghany mountain ranges. From city streets to rolling hills to majestic mountains, the Roanoke Region offers urban, suburban, and rural landscapes and living. The temperate climate gives four distinct seasons that are neither too warm nor too cold but just right to take advantage of the fishing, hiking, climbing, and biking dominant in the region. Whether it is mountain or road biking, hiking or camping, bass or fly fishing, wakeboarding or water skiing, greenways or blueways, climbing or caving, or whitewater or flat water, Roanoke has a little of everything to help you get outside! The most visited National Park in the U.S. – Blue Ridge Parkway The longest footpath in the U.S. – Appalachian Trail The most photographed point along the Appalachian Trail – McAfee Knob The 2nd largest municipal park in the U.S. – Carvins Cove Nature Reserve Smith Mountain Lake Mountain Bike trails ranked in Top 5 according to Resort Sports Network TV More than 600 miles of trails and 20 miles of greenways Four State Parks Four large lakes ideal for boating, fishing, and water sports Two major rivers – James and New Rivers World-class fishing can be found on the region’s numerous wild and stocked streams and lakes including the Roanoke River which runs through Roanoke

7. It is one of the original six Virginia State Parks

8. Nestled in Virginia’s Western Highlands, it features some of Virginia’s most outstanding scenery

9. Overnight options include RV camping, tent camping, or cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps

11. Offers superb recreational activities

12. More than 500 miles of shoreline

13. Home to the ESPN Bassmasters Elite tournament and Oakley’s Big Bass Show

14. Plenty of vacation rentals nearby

16. Overnight options include RV and tent camping

18. Parallels 39 miles of the New River which is the 2nd oldest river in the world and uniquely flows north

20. Canoeing & Kayaking Sandwiched between the New and James Rivers, Roanoke has hundreds of miles of rivers and creeks for you to explore. Looking for a relaxing float with your family, or are you looking to hone your paddling skills on some classic whitewater runs? Whatever floats your boat, you'll find it here in the Roanoke Region of Virginia. Click here to learn more.

22. Lake Sports Whether you are looking to rent a pontoon boat, ski on some glass water, or just sit on a sandy beach, the lakes that make up the Roanoke Region are spectacular. So come on out, play, and get wet. Click here to learn more.

23. Visit RoanokeOutside.com to learn why Roanoke is one of the best outdoor towns in the U.S.