Simple Pleasures in My Hometown

This entry into the hometown contest explores local places where my family has enjoyed spending time. We live in Roanoke City, Virginia, and the cover photo is of my oldest son sitting atop McAfee Knob. It is located just outside of Salem Virginia which is a part of the Roanoke Valley. The hiking trail is a little over 7 miles round trip and the knob is at an elevation of 1,811 feet. There are parts of the trail that are straight up and can take your breath away. The good part is going back down the mountain you feel as if you are running because it is straight down. This is a popular area for locals and tourists as well. The view from the knob is breathtaking and well worth the climb.

The above image is of me and my son at Catawba Falls which is around the corner from McAfee Knob in the Salem area. I had no idea this was even in my back yard until we went on a hike a few years ago. The air is fresh and the atmosphere is amazing. You leave all the sights and sounds of the world far below. The small yet beautiful waterfall is 2 miles past the picnic area. It is tucked away within Catawba Mountain and is truly a hidden treasure. When you get to the top you literally hear nothing except the falling water.

The annual Drumstick Dash has been a part of the Roanoke Valley for over a decade. Unfortunately, thanks to the Coronavirus, the 2020 event was virtual and participants had to choose their own place to run or walk. This photo is from 2019. My son is in the middle with his best friend on his left and the friend's father on the left. The Drumstick Dash is a yearly event that takes place in downtown Roanoke on Thanksgiving morning. The motto is "Move your feet so others can eat" and money raised goes to the local Rescue Mission homeless shelter.

Thousands of people participate every year and many come from other states to take part. You can choose to run or walk and the runners win prizes for coming in first, second, and third place. Downtown Roanoke is a great place to visit even when there is no Drumstick Dash. It is the center of the city and has much to offer. The yearly 5K race is one of the most popular events to take place in the area. There is a route that has been mapped out where those who participate end up walking throughout the downtown area.

One entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway is just outside of Roanoke. It's only about a 5-minute drive. The Parkway is a beautiful spot to hike and simply take in the awesome view. People come from all around to visit this location and it is worth the drive. There are many overlooks that give a wonderful view of the Roanoke Valley.

The above image is my husband and our middle grandchild. They are walking on a trail at Countryside Park. The playground and trails were constructed about 5 years ago and it is a very popular spot for children and adults. I have walked in this park as early as 7:00 AM and see people of all ages out for their morning jogs.

You will not be able to visit the location in the above photo but is part of my hometown area so I decided to include it as a bonus image. My son is holding a fish that was caught by one of the children he assists at the Hope Tree boys group home. This facility is located in Salem Virginia and is next to Roanoke College. This private pond is located just off of Main Street and gives the students who reside at the group the ability to fish and enjoy the great outdoors. They also can enjoy horseback riding and other activities. Although it's not open to the public I think it's nice to know that it exists.