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 6 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: approx. 1/4 mile

(The first 6 Parts of this series account for about 2 miles of the Roanoke River Greenway.)

At the end of Part 5, we had walked along the section of Wiley Drive to the point where it connects back with a main road, near Rivers Edge Park.

The Open Path

The first aspect that I noticed at this point was the feeling of openess and perhaps being slightly more vulnerable.

Vulnerable to what, really nothing at all. But until now, the majority of the pathway has had a great deal in the way of shady tree cover and I had just grown used to the sense of protection.

Herbert Davies Memorial Bridge (Pedestrian Bridge)

Greenway path leads straight ahead, entrance to the bridge is visible to the left

Along the way is a pedestrian bridge that connects the Roanoke River Greenway path to a playing field on the other side of the river.

The bridge is so named after a city council member from the 1950s, according to a marker that sits in front.

Just after walking by this bridge, the pathway now a regular sidewalk, the greenway continues. Not far ahead, and easily noticed with new pavement, the path deviates a little to the left.

Then, we pass under a train bridge and I believe also the bridge for Old Jefferson Street.

Note: This area has seen construction improvements since my visit. A wood, enclosed walkway system was built directly at the path and beneath these bridges.

An End?

Beyond these bridges, the entrance to Roanoke Memorial Hospital is in sight.

And there is another small bridge to cross which marks the end, at least of this section of the greenway. There is also enough room here to rest for a bit and also turn around for those riding bikes.

Looking back at the apparent end to the Roanoke River Greenway

But, it’s not the real end, as there is actually over 3 miles left of the greenway to walk, ride a bicyle, explore, and enjoy.

But, where to go? I’ll explain that, and and we’ll continue exploring next time.