Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

This is Part 4 in an Exploring Roanoke series that covers: the current (as of May, 2008) entire nearly 6 miles of the Roanoke River Greenway, Wasena Park, The Skate Park, Smith Park, Piedmont Park, and lots of scenery along the way.

(For a general introduction to the greenway system in Roanoke, you may want to first visit a previous post.)

Distance (Part 4): approx. 1/8 mile

Excursion at the Roanoke River

During Part 3 we had veered to the left and taken the paved path from Wiley Drive, leading towards the middle of Smith Park. But, what if we continue walking along Wiley Drive?

Well, we’re definitely closer to the Roanoke River and it just so happens that there’s a nice little spot ahead that easily allows access to the water.

Also, at various points along the River are these neat little signs. And during many times of the day I usually see a number of fisherman, some from the bank and others choosing to wade in the water.

The little clearing and rock bank ahead appears to be quite a good fishing spot I think. Or, in my case, just a peaceful spot to rest after traveling this far. Across the River is a elevated set of train tracks, reminding me that I’m never too far from the railroad around Roanoke.

The water is pretty clear near the bank, and the bottom of the river here is littered with countless stones. I reached out and down towards the water, and as I did a small school of tiny fish hurriedly swam away in the other direction.

This clearing is rather large when the water is at this elevation, which seems about how it should be under the relatively normal weather conditions we’ve experienced lately.

Looking Ahead

At the end of the clearing I stand for a minute and look ahead and down the River. Some trees near the bank tend to seemingly grow out of the ground horizontally, and then upwards reaching for the sun.

Faintly in the background, I can see the second bridge on Wiley Drive that we’ll soon be crossing.

Continuing the Journey

After a few more moments of watching and staring at what lies ahead, I decide to bring this little side excursion to and end and continue on my way.

So, I carry myself back up to Wiley Drive and keep walking. Shortly, I come upon that second bridge and also see in the near distance another road bridge which we will be walking under.

In Exploring Roanoke - The Roanoke River Greenway (Part 5), we’ll check all of this out and I’ll also talk about why you may want to watch your head when walking under this particular bridge. (Hint: “falling debris” from some other feathered wildlife.)