Pros & cons
PROS
- Often quieter than nearby, more famous Parkway overlooks
- Overlook delivers broad Roanoke Valley views right beside the trail
CONS
- Trail itself is mostly forested; best views are at the overlook
- Very short—better as a stop than a destination hike
Park at Stewarts Knob Overlook (MP 110.6) on the Blue Ridge Parkway; small pullout with no major facilities nearby [npplan.com](https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/north-carolina-national-parks/blue-ridge-parkway-park-at-a-glance/blue-ridge-parkway-hiking-trails/blue-ridge-parkway-stewarts-knob-overlook-110-6/).
Natural, uneven footing with roots and occasional rocks; no facilities at the overlook; a separate horse trail starts nearby—don’t wander onto equestrian routes if you’re on foot [npplan.com](https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/north-carolina-national-parks/blue-ridge-parkway-park-at-a-glance/blue-ridge-parkway-hiking-trails/blue-ridge-parkway-stewarts-knob-overlook-110-6/) [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/pets.htm).
Why hike it
This is the classic “stretch your legs” stop: a very short, easy woodland walk right off the Blue Ridge Parkway that delivers big-picture scenery from the adjacent overlook and a peaceful forest stroll on the trail itself. It’s ideal when you want fresh air and a taste of the Blue Ridge without committing half your day. Most sources put the trail at about 0.5 miles total, with gentle grades and an easy, well-defined path [roanokeoutside.com](https://roanokeoutside.com/location/stewarts-knob-trail/) [npplan.com](https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/north-carolina-national-parks/blue-ridge-parkway-park-at-a-glance/blue-ridge-parkway-hiking-trails/blue-ridge-parkway-stewarts-knob-overlook-110-6/).
The experience
Start from the Stewarts Knob Overlook (MP 110.6). The overlook itself is the money view—this is where the Blue Ridge rises before dropping into the Roanoke Valley, so you get a broad sense of the surrounding ridges and valley floor [virtualblueridge.com](https://www.virtualblueridge.com/parkway-place/stewart-knob-overlook/). The trail ducks into mixed hardwood forest on natural tread—packed dirt with some roots and occasional rocks—and stays mellow throughout. Expect a quiet, uncrowded feel and easy navigation; it’s a short, low-commitment walk that pairs nicely with photo stops at nearby overlooks [roanokeoutside.com](https://roanokeoutside.com/location/stewarts-knob-trail/).
Keep expectations in check
The best vistas are steps from your car at the overlook; once you’re on the trail, you’re mostly in the trees. Think calming woods and birdsong over dramatic viewpoints. If you’re chasing a long, workout-style hike, this isn’t it—consider using it as a warm-up or a break in a longer Parkway day [virtualblueridge.com](https://www.virtualblueridge.com/parkway-place/stewart-knob-overlook/) [roanokeoutside.com](https://roanokeoutside.com/location/stewarts-knob-trail/).
Best time to hike
Spring brings fresh greens and wildflowers; summer offers a shady canopy; fall delivers colorful foliage; and in winter, leaf-off conditions can open up more peekaboo views along the trail itself. Sunrise and late-afternoon light flatter the overlook views and keep temps milder in hot months [roanokeoutside.com](https://roanokeoutside.com/location/stewarts-knob-trail/).
Logistics and tips
- Parking is right at Stewarts Knob Overlook (MP 110.6); don’t expect facilities. Roanoke is close for food and services [npplan.com](https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/north-carolina-national-parks/blue-ridge-parkway-park-at-a-glance/blue-ridge-parkway-hiking-trails/blue-ridge-parkway-stewarts-knob-overlook-110-6/).
- Trail surface is natural and can be rooty; standard walking shoes are fine in dry weather.
- Pets must be leashed per Blue Ridge Parkway regulations [nps.gov](https://www.nps.gov/blri/planyourvisit/pets.htm).
- A separate 5-mile horse trail also starts in this area; stick to the short footpath if you’re hiking [npplan.com](https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/north-carolina-national-parks/blue-ridge-parkway-park-at-a-glance/blue-ridge-parkway-hiking-trails/blue-ridge-parkway-stewarts-knob-overlook-110-6/).
Elevation
0.5 mi · 18 minWhere it starts
37.2972, -79.8719Near Stewart Knob Trail
All places →All trails →
3.1 mi awayRoanoke River OverlookQuick river-and-dam views with a short, choose-your-effort trailTrailhead · Pullout
3.1 mi awayRoanoke River TrailQuick riverside leg stretcher with dam and river views.Easy · 0.4 mi · 30 min
4.2 mi awayExplore Park Visitor Center and Park StoreOrientation hub with exhibits, film, and a great park storeVisitor Center · Store
4.2 mi awayExplore Park CampgroundGlamping-to-primitive campground with trails, river access, and brewpubCampground · Restroom
6.3 mi awayChestnut Ridge Loop TrailShady hardwood loop with easy grades and great birding near RoanokeModerate · 5.4 mi · 2.5 hr
6.3 mi awayRoanoke Mountain Woodland TrailMini summit loop with big Roanoke Valley views.Easy · 0.4 mi · 15 min
6.3 mi awayRoanoke Mountain Picnic AreaShady picnic hub with grills and quick access to Roanoke viewsTrailhead · Restroom
17.6 mi awaySharp Top TrailShort, steep grind to a rocky summit and sweeping 360-degree viewsChallenging · 3 mi · 2.5 hr
