Mill Mountain Park Roanoke
Iconic Roanoke Star, scenic trails, and a charming zoo atop a mountain offering panoramic city and mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Mill Mountain Park Roanoke
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Roanoke Star, scenic trails, and a charming zoo atop a mountain offering panoramic city and mountain views.
"Mill Mountain Park is such an incredible place to visit. There’s truly something for everyone here."
🚗 Drive or Hike to the Star
You can drive directly to the Roanoke Star or hike up for a rewarding experience. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use AllTrails App
Great for detailed trail maps and navigation, especially for finding hikes with specific views. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Roanoke Star
Summit of Mill Mountain
Iconic 100-foot tall star offering panoramic views of Roanoke Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Mill Mountain Park Trails
Throughout the park
Explore diverse hiking and biking paths, including the Star Trail, with options for all skill levels.
Mill Mountain Zoo
Summit of Mill Mountain
A charming, nonprofit zoo perfect for families, featuring a variety of animals with city views.
Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden
Summit of Mill Mountain
A peaceful garden showcasing local flora, offering a serene escape and beautiful photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Navigating Trails and Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Hike to the Star
You can drive directly to the Roanoke Star or hike up for a rewarding experience. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use AllTrails App
Great for detailed trail maps and navigation, especially for finding hikes with specific views. :iphone:
🍦 Treat Yourself to Ice Cream
Stop by Blue Cow Ice Cream after your adventure for a sweet reward. :ice_cream:
👨👩👧 Family Fun at the Zoo
Mill Mountain Zoo is perfect for young kids, offering an hour of exploration. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Hike to the Star
You can drive directly to the Roanoke Star or hike up for a rewarding experience. :athletic_shoe:
📱 Use AllTrails App
Great for detailed trail maps and navigation, especially for finding hikes with specific views. :iphone:
🍦 Treat Yourself to Ice Cream
Stop by Blue Cow Ice Cream after your adventure for a sweet reward. :ice_cream:
👨👩👧 Family Fun at the Zoo
Mill Mountain Zoo is perfect for young kids, offering an hour of exploration. :child:
📸 Capture the Views
The overlooks offer breathtaking scenery, especially during sunrise and sunset. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mill Mountain Park is widely praised for its stunning views, well-maintained trails, and family-friendly attractions like the zoo. Visitors appreciate the accessibility of the Roanoke Star and the natural beauty of the area, making it a refreshing escape. While some minor critiques exist, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting it as a must-visit destination.
"Mill Mountain Park is such an incredible place to visit. There’s truly something for everyone here, whether you're into hiking, exploring nature, or just looking for a relaxing spot to take in some amazing views.
The trails are beautifully maintained and easy to navigate, and there are options for all skill levels. The overlooks are absolutely breathtaking you can see for miles, and it’s the kind of view that makes you stop and just take it all in.
Whether you’re walking, biking, or simply enjoying the scenic spots with your family, Mill Mountain Park offers a peaceful and refreshing escape into nature. It’s a must-visit if you're in the area!"
Theresa N.
"This is a great park (minus the zoo) I saw bicyclists, yoga nice trails and stunning views. They have a beautiful garden you can walk through too, although admittedly I went at the wrong time of year.
As someone visiting for work from another state -who didn't even plan on going here- I really really enjoyed this place. Again the zoo upset me (but I'll let you read my full review for that separately)
This is a great place to go. (Minus the zoo lol can't stress it enough)"
Joe Ryan
"I love the great state of Virginia and even more I love Roanoke. The Star is iconic and is best represented by seeing it at night when it is lit up. Sadly I was not up there at night but either day or night it's worth visiting.
There is a beautiful overlook that lets you see all of downtown Roanoke and the Blue Ridge mountains as far as the eye can see. Stunning view.
There is a path that leads down from the star to another overlook and a playground for kids. Very good shade trees and open grassy area as well. There are restrooms by the star and others scattered around.
There is a limited amount of parking so you can either park at the star and walk down or park down at the playground and walk up to the star.
Also, there is a zoo on top of Mill Mountain. It's not the best zoo in the world but how many zoos can you think of on top of a mountain? Definitely worth a visit while you are up there.
Roanoke itself is full of history and has plenty of places to visit and explore. While you are there drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway. You will not regret it.
If you do drive it, I highly suggest doing it in the fall while the leaves are changing. Yet more stunning views and plenty of places for picnics."
Thomas Stewart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mill Mountain Park is easily accessible by car. You can drive directly to the Roanoke Star parking area or to various trailheads. For those using navigation, 'Roanoke Star' is a good destination to input. Public transportation options are limited for reaching the summit directly, so driving is the most convenient method.
Yes, there is parking available at the Roanoke Star and at various trailheads and picnic areas throughout the park. Parking can be limited during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Mill Mountain Park is a popular destination for mountain bikers, with dedicated trails and opportunities to connect with other local riding areas.
Yes, Mill Mountain Park is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on the trails, but please ensure they are leashed and that you clean up after them.
You can drive directly to the Roanoke Star for easy access and stunning views. Alternatively, hiking trails like the Star Trail offer a more active approach to reaching this iconic landmark.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Mill Mountain Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, there may be admission fees for specific attractions within the park, such as the Mill Mountain Zoo.
Mill Mountain Park is generally open from dawn to dusk. Specific attractions like the Mill Mountain Zoo have their own operating hours, typically daily. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
No, there is no ticket required to visit the Roanoke Star. It is a public landmark and accessible to everyone.
Mill Mountain Zoo is a nonprofit organization and has an admission fee. Prices are generally reasonable and vary for adults and children. Check their website for current pricing.
While not always necessary, you can typically purchase tickets for the Mill Mountain Zoo upon arrival. For group visits or specific events, it might be beneficial to inquire about advance booking options.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Star Trail is a popular choice, leading to the Roanoke Star with great city views. Other trails offer varying lengths and difficulty levels, suitable for casual strolls or more vigorous hikes. The app AllTrails is recommended for detailed trail information.
Besides hiking, you can visit the Roanoke Star, explore the Mill Mountain Zoo, wander through the Wildflower Garden, enjoy the playground, and have a picnic. It's a versatile destination for nature lovers and families.
Yes, the Roanoke Star offers the most iconic viewpoint, providing expansive vistas of downtown Roanoke and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. There are other overlooks along the trails as well.
Mill Mountain Park is very family-friendly. The zoo is perfect for young kids, and there's a playground area. Many trails are also easy enough for little ones to navigate. 
While the zoo houses a variety of animals, you might spot local wildlife like birds and squirrels while hiking. The park's natural setting provides a habitat for various species.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants directly within Mill Mountain Park. However, picnic areas are available, and you can find dining options in downtown Roanoke, which is a short drive away.
Yes, Mill Mountain Park has several picnic areas equipped with benches and tables, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic with a view.
Blue Cow Ice Cream is a popular spot recommended by visitors for a post-hike treat. It's located conveniently near the park.
Typically, there are no permanent food vendors at the Roanoke Star itself. It's best to bring your own snacks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Roanoke offers a diverse culinary scene with numerous restaurants, cafes, and eateries. You can find everything from casual dining to more upscale options in the downtown area.
📸 📸 Photography
The Roanoke Star offers iconic panoramic shots of the city and mountains. The overlooks along the trails and the Wildflower Garden also provide beautiful photographic opportunities.
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for photography at the Roanoke Star. The star is also illuminated at night, providing a different, magical perspective.
Generally, photography is allowed throughout Mill Mountain Park for personal use. Commercial photography may require permits, so it's advisable to check with park management if you plan a professional shoot.
You can capture close-ups of the animals, as well as wider shots that include the zoo's unique mountain setting. The zoo is designed to be engaging for both visitors and photographers.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national and state parks to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment. It's best to check the specific park regulations regarding drone operation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the zoo, the park offers a playground and picnic areas, making it easy to spend a whole day enjoying the outdoors. Many of the trails are also suitable for children, especially the Star Trail which leads to the iconic Roanoke Star. Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited to picnic spots. The accessibility of the Roanoke Star by car also makes it easy for families with strollers or those who prefer not to hike long distances. The combination of nature, animals, and play areas ensures a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Wildflower Garden and the opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Utilizing apps like AllTrails can help you discover trails that match your desired length and difficulty, ensuring you find the perfect route.
🚴♂️ Cyclists and Adventure Seekers
Whether you're a seasoned rider or looking to improve your skills, the park provides a great environment to explore on two wheels.Combine your biking adventure with a stop at the Roanoke Star for incredible views, or cool off with a treat from Blue Cow Ice Cream afterward.
The park's network of trails allows for varied routes, ensuring a dynamic and enjoyable experience for cyclists of all levels.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Mill Mountain Park
Many trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, making them accessible for casual walkers and experienced hikers alike. The AllTrails app is a highly recommended resource for detailed trail maps, elevation profiles, and user reviews, helping you choose the perfect hike for your adventure.
For cyclists, Mill Mountain Park offers exciting mountain biking opportunities. Trails are designed to accommodate bikes, and local groups often organize rides and skills clinics in the area, highlighting the park's popularity within the cycling community.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or a thrilling bike ride, Mill Mountain Park's trail system has something to offer everyone.The Iconic Roanoke Star and Its Views
The star is not only a landmark but also a prime vantage point, offering breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Roanoke, the surrounding valley, and the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains stretching as far as the eye can see. Visitors can reach the star by car, making it easily accessible for most. However, for those who prefer a more active approach, hiking trails like the Star Trail provide a scenic ascent. The views are spectacular at any time of day, but many recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting and vibrant colors.
At night, the star is illuminated, casting a warm glow over the city and offering a magical perspective that is truly unforgettable.Beyond the immediate vicinity of the star, there are additional overlooks and a playground area accessible via paths leading down from the summit. These spots offer different angles of the landscape and are perfect for families or those seeking a quieter moment to appreciate the scenery. The combination of the iconic star and its stunning backdrop makes this a must-visit for any traveler in the Roanoke area.
Mill Mountain Zoo: A Unique Mountainside Attraction
The zoo's location on the mountainside provides a beautiful backdrop, with scenic views of the city below. It's praised for its friendly staff, relaxed atmosphere, and incredibly reasonable prices, making it an affordable and enjoyable attraction. Visitors often highlight how much their children enjoy the experience, with many returning for repeat visits.
While some reviews mention the zoo as a point of contention for various reasons, its unique setting and family-friendly focus make it a noteworthy part of the Mill Mountain Park experience. It offers an opportunity to see a variety of animals in a distinctive environment, adding another layer of enjoyment to a visit to the mountaintop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit