Roanoke Named Top 10 Bike Friendly City

The Roanoke Region has been a cycling destination for some time. With the Blue Ridge Parkway, amazing trail systems, and a robust biking culture, it’s not hard to see why Roanoke continues to receive recognition as a biking haven. USA Today recently named Roanoke as one of its Top Ten Bike-Friendly Cities. 

In the article, Roanoke is lumped in with traditional cycling meccas such as Portland, Oregon and Boulder, Colorado. Roanoke was also the only East Coast location aside from Louisville, Kentucky to make the list, laying a legitimate claim to the cycling capital of Virginia and the mid-Atlantic.

Joining Roanoke in the Top Ten are hotspots in the West like San Diego, California, Tucson, Arizona, and tiny contender Jackson, Wyoming. 

USA Today cited the valley’s large network of back roads and scenic byways perfect for long and short road rides, the greenway system, and climate for inclusion on the listing. See an excerpt below:

“A temperate climate and access to miles of lightly traveled roads are just a few of the reasons why the Roanoke Valley is quickly becoming known as a cycling hub. The TransAmerica Bicycle Trail even passes through here. There are more than 2,500 miles designated as scenic byways in Virginia with excellent cycling opportunities. For something different, try the Art by Bike path which meanders through homespun neighborhoods, the War Memorial, a garden, and downtown proper. UnderDog Bikes is one of two good outfitters here for all equipment and trail needs.” 

For more information about biking in the Roanoke Region, check out the biking page on RoanokeOutside.com >>>