The Roanoke River Greenway is one of the city's best-kept family secrets — a smooth, scenic trail perfect for riders of all ages. Rent e-bikes from Roanoke Mountain Adventures, cruise the river, and finish with a scoop at Blue Cow Ice Cream.
If you're looking for the perfect family day in Roanoke, look no further than the Roanoke River Greenway. This paved, car-free trail stretches over 20 miles through the heart of the city, hugging the river and passing through parks, neighborhoods, and natural scenery that makes it hard to believe you're in the middle of a city. Add e-bikes and a stop for handcrafted ice cream, and you've got a day the whole family will be talking about.
Start at Roanoke Mountain Adventures
Your first stop is Roanoke Mountain Adventures, located at 806 Wasena Ave SW — right on the greenway. RMA is Roanoke's go-to outfitter for outdoor adventures, and their e-bike rental setup is dialed in for families. Helmets are included, the staff will help everyone get properly fitted and comfortable on the bikes, and they'll point you toward the best sections of the trail for your group.
E-bikes are the secret weapon for family rides. The electric assist means younger riders (and tired parents) can keep pace without anyone bonking halfway through. The greenway is flat enough that you won't need it constantly — but it's there when you do, and that makes all the difference.
Tip: Book in advance on weekends, especially in the summer. They fill up.
*Stay Roanoke guests: use code STAYROANOKE when booking with Roanoke Mountain Adventures for 10% off your rental.*
Hit the Greenway
Once you're rolling, the Roanoke River Greenway opens up in front of you. The trail runs alongside the Roanoke River through a mix of wooded corridors, open meadows, and scenic overlooks. You'll pass under bridges, spot herons along the riverbank, and have plenty of open space to spread out as a family.
The paved surface is smooth and well-maintained, making it ideal for kids on bikes. There are no significant hills to contend with — just a relaxed, winding path that lets everyone ride at their own pace. Keep your eyes open for wildlife: great blue herons, ducks, and the occasional deer are common sightings along the river corridor.
Distance tip: A round trip of 6–10 miles is a comfortable target for most families with younger kids. Ambitious groups can push further — the full trail offers plenty more to explore.
Stop for Ice Cream at Blue Cow
No family bike day is complete without ice cream, and Roanoke delivers one of the best stops you'll find anywhere. Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. is located at 1115 Piedmont St SE — accessible right from the greenway — and serves small-batch, handcrafted ice cream made in Virginia with seasonal, quality ingredients.
The flavors rotate regularly and tend toward the creative: think local fruit combinations, unexpected mix-ins, and rotating specials that keep regulars guessing. The shop is relaxed, kid-friendly, and the perfect place to reward everyone for a great ride. Grab a scoop, find a seat, and enjoy the glow of a genuinely good day.
Practical Info
- E-Bike Rentals: Roanoke Mountain Adventures — 806 Wasena Ave SW
- Ice Cream: Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. — 1115 Piedmont St SE
- Trail surface: Paved, flat, family-friendly
- Best time: Spring through fall; weekday mornings for the lightest crowds
- Parking: Available near the RMA shop in the Wasena neighborhood
The greenway is one of Roanoke's crown jewels — and this route strings together two of the city's best experiences into a single, memorable day. Browse our vacation rentals and book your Roanoke stay today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Roanoke River Greenway?
The Roanoke River Greenway stretches over 20 miles through the city of Roanoke, running alongside the Roanoke River through parks, neighborhoods, and natural scenery. It is part of a larger greenway network in the Roanoke Valley with over 30 miles of connected paved trail.
Where can I rent bikes to ride the Roanoke River Greenway?
Roanoke Mountain Adventures (806 Wasena Ave SW) rents e-bikes and standard bikes right on the greenway in the Wasena neighborhood. They include helmets with every rental and their staff will help fit riders of all sizes. Stay Roanoke guests get 10% off with code STAYROANOKE.
Is the Roanoke River Greenway good for families with kids?
Yes — the Roanoke River Greenway is one of the best family cycling destinations in Virginia. The paved surface is smooth and flat with no significant hills, making it easy for riders of all ages. E-bikes from Roanoke Mountain Adventures are especially helpful for keeping the whole family moving at a comfortable pace.
Where is the best place to get ice cream in Roanoke after biking?
Blue Cow Ice Cream Co. (1115 Piedmont St SE) is the top stop for post-ride ice cream in Roanoke. Their handcrafted, small-batch flavors are made in Virginia with seasonal ingredients, and the shop is accessible directly from the Roanoke River Greenway.