These special Memorial Day Weekend events are scheduled at Roan Mountain State Park:
THURSDAY
10:30 a.m., Gems of the Forest: The Peg Leg Mine Trail tours a beautiful rich cove forest that’s rich in history. Join this easy hike to meet the local flora and fauna. Meet at the Visitor’s Center.
2 p.m., Softball: What better way to kick off the holiday weekend than a friendly game of non-competitive softball. Meet at the softball fields.
FRIDAY
9:45 a.m., WINGS Helicopter landing: Roan Mountain State Park Rangers will secure a landing zone for the WINGS Rescue Helicopter in the softball field at the entrance to the cabin area. Park visitors are invited to observe the landing from a safe distance. The landing is scheduled to take place at 10 a.m. but vehicles will not be permitted to drive into the area after the landing zone is established so those wishing to attend are asked to arrive no later than 9:45 a.m.
11 a.m., Bicycle Safety: Learn how to keep yourself safe as you enjoy Roan Mountain State Park by bicycle. Bring your bike and helmet. Meet at the Campground Check-in Station.
1 p.m., Raven Rock Hike: A guided tour of this unique trail that climbs through several natural communities and offers hikers beautiful view of Roan Mountain State Park. This trail is moderate in difficulty and does have a few steep sections. Please bring water and wear appropriate shoes for hiking. Meet at Campground Check-in Station.
3:30 p.m. – Snakes Alive: Meet and greet some of the park’s reptile residents and learn the truth about these often misunderstood creatures. Meet at the Visitor’s Center.
5 p.m., Dog Hike: There are few things in this world that are better than hiking with a dog. Come learn some tips and tricks on hiking with dogs. Leashes are mandatory. Bring your furry friend and be ready to socialize. Meet at Shelter 2.
7 p.m., Music @ The Amphitheater with Tommy Shortt: Traditional country music and bluegrass hailing from the mountains of Southwest Virginia. Meet at the Amphitheater. This event will be held at Shelter 3 in the Campground Pavilion in case of inclement weather.
8:45 p.m., Sounds of the Night: Explore the smells and sounds of a summer evening at the park and see if you have what it takes to be a creature of the night. Please bring a flashlight and wear closed-toed shoes. Meet at the Tom Gray Trail.
SATURDAY
11 a.m., Salamander Hunt: Flip some rocks to find some of Roan Mountain’s most interesting species. Meet at Shelter 2.
12 p.m., Hike The Balds: Come out for a hike of unparalleled views and learn about the rare ecosystems that make Roan Mountain such a unique place, all while hiking along the Appalachian Trail. The trail is moderate in difficulty and can be steep in sections. Please wear sturdy shoes and bring water, a snack and a jacket. Meet at Park Headquarters and then participants will carpool up to Carver’s Gap.
12 p.m., Music @ The Miller Farmstead with Art Lang: Traditional mountain music at The Miller Farmstead.
2 p.m., Wildlife of Roan Mountain: Can you identify a bear’s fur by touch? Come pet some pelts and learn about some of the many creatures that call the Roan Mountain area home. Meet at Shelter 3.
4 p.m., Creek Walk: Cool off in the Doe River, learn about stream ecology and discover some aquatic life forms in their natural habitat. Wear closed-toed shoes and be prepared to get in the water. Meet at Campground Check-in Station.
5:30 p.m., 10 Essentials: Do you know the 10 essentials that can help you to survive in the wilderness? Come learn some information that could one day save your life. Meet at Shelter 3.
7 p.m., Music @ The Amphitheater with the Roan Mountain Moonshiners: This local band always provides a toe-tappin’ good time with their old-time music. Meet at the Amphitheater. This event will be held at Shelter 3 at the Campground pavilion in the event of inclement weather.
9 p.m., Campground Campfire: Enjoy jokes, riddles, stories and S’mores at the campground fire ring (just past the Tom Gray Trailhead). Don’t forget your flashlight.