Hike to Hay Rock

If you're looking for a hike in the Roanoke area without the crowds that McAfee Knob draws, but still want a challenging hike with great views, try hiking to Hay Rock.

This 8.0 mile round trip hike begins at the Park and Ride just off I-81 at the US-220 Troutville/Fincastle exit (150B). The gravel lot is by the first turn on your left after you cross under I-81, next to the Exxon. There is an unmarked trail by the parking lot guardrail leading away from US-220. Follow this trail for 0.2 miles and take a left (go South) at the junction with the Appalachian Trail (white blazes). You'll follow the AT for about 0.8 miles and cross Tinker Creek and railroad tracks shortly after. The trail begins to steepen from here and there will be switchbacks all the way up Tinker Mountain with a total elevation gain of 1640'.

At 2.0 miles you'll reach the ridgeline under a powerline. The view to the northeast here is of Daleville. Continuing on the AT, there are numerous (at least 4-5) viewpoints of Carvins Cove to the south. Carvin's Cove is the second largest city park in the United States, with many great biking trails and water sport opportunities. For a shorter hike, turn around at any one of these viewpoints and retrace your steps back to the car.

If you choose to continue on, follow the AT on the ridgeline for 2.0 more miles, at which point you'll encounter a very large boulder overhanging the trail-this is Hay Rock. For the safest ascent, go around to the right side of the rock and climb up. Be careful climbing up for it is quite steep. The panoramic views of Carvins Cove and McAfee Knob are breathtaking, and a great spot to eat lunch or snack after your hike up.

After soaking in the views, simply retrace your steps north on the Appalachian Trail, turn right on the unmarked trail (7.8 miles into the hike or 3.8 miles once you begin your descent) and return to your car.