Tinker Ridge/Hay Rock Overlook

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Tinker Ridge Trail crosses Tinker Creek, which is the site depicted in Annie Dillard's "Pilgrim at Tinker Creek," then ascends Tinker Ridge providing the most spectacular views of Carvins Cove and the Roanoke Valley.

Appalachian Trail
Moderate difficulty
8 mile round trip, out and back hike
15 minutes from downtown Roanoke

Ideal for:

strong and steady hikers
bird and small wildlife lovers
families with older children
a quiet stroll

Directions to the trailhead

From Roanoke - take I-81 north to exit 150B
Bear right off the exit ramp to the traffic light
Turn right at the traffic light onto Rt. 220N (towards Fincastle)
Pass under I-81 and turn left almost immediately onto Rt. 816 and turn left into the Park and Ride lot

Trail description

From the Park and Ride lot, cross Rt. 816, go around the guard rail which is blocking an abandoned road
Follow this old road up the hill for 0.2 miles to intersection with Appalachian Trail
Bear left onto the Appalachian Trail heading south. Follow the white blaze marks on trees
After approximately 2 miles you will reach the ridge line and views of Carvins Cove reservoir
Retrace your steps for your return trip

Add On

Stop by Ikenberry Orchards (north on 220) to buy local produce or visit the farmer's market on Saturdays during the months of April - October (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM)
Ready for some food? How about the best BBQ in the Roanoke Valley? Just over the hill on 220 North in the Botertourt Commons is Three Lil' Pigs. So good a former president ate there. (540.996.0165)
Need a souvenir to commemorate your hike? Continue on 220N for 0.5 miles to Outdoor Trails - a local outdoor store (540.992.5850)
Go see a baseball game! The Salem Red Sox schedule can be found at www.salemsox.com or by calling 540.389.3333