Stewart Knob Trail

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/).