Where to Run in the Roanoke Valley
Submitted by Dan Worthing
 
Troutville Appalachian Trail Out -n Back (in Botetourt County)
Out and back 4.8 miles on forest and meadow trails, hilly but not mountainous.

Features: A challenging run on the Appalachian Trail from Daleville to Troutville in Botetourt County. The run begins behind Best Western, crosses through a meadow and then into a wooded area. It comes out on 220 just north from where it starts. The trail resumes on the other side of 220 and goes through woods and meadows, eventually crossing under Interstate 81 and finishing at Route 11 in Troutville. The run back seems a little easier. Sturdy foot bridges and ladders cross streams and fences.

I have seen several deer, cardinals, rabbits, one red fox, and one skunk in the five or so times I have run this section of the trail. You can hear the highway most of the time but still experience nature. I have seen fewer than ten people while on the trail

Safety: Watch for rocks, roots, and tree limbs on the path. Do not run the trail at night because of the steep ascents and twists. Run with a buddy. Don't frighten the skunk.

Directions: From Roanoke take I-81 north to exit 150B. Take 220 north for about a half mile until you see the Exxon on the left just after you pass under I-81.  There is a carpool lot on the left just before the Exxon where you can park. Walk around the guardrail and take the narrow trail behind the lot to the top of the hill.  Just over the top of the hill you will meet the Appalachian Trail. Turn right onto the trail and into the open field. The trail is well cleared but look for the six inch white paint stripes which mark the trail. A double stripe indicates a sharp turn.