Prepare for Fun on the Roanoke River this Summer

As summer approaches, it’s a great time to play in the Roanoke River. Before heading to the Blueway, we want to share some helpful information, safety tips, and reminders through a series of videos. We’ll start with an important update about construction on the In-River Park.

In-River Park Construction

This summer, construction work on the In-River Park will be taking place at Wasena Park. The take-out at this location is temporarily moving upstream to avoid the work zone. Check out this informational video for more information.

River Access Points

While work is ongoing along the Roanoke River in Wasena Park, it’s best to avoid that location for general wading and playing in the river. There are many additional access points to enjoy, whether you plan to float from point to point, or simply want to cool off in the water. More information can be found below and at RoanokeRiverBlueway.org.

• Bridge Street Trailhead

Shoreline access off the Roanoke River Greenway, parking, portable toilet, trash receptacle, and picnic table.

Image of vegetation and trees with a narrow path leading down to a river.

Small shoreline access point to a river, with a bridge visible in the distance.

Rocks and aquatic vegetation along the shoreline of a river.

Parking lot adjoining a paved greenway, with kiosk, trash can, and picnic table.

Parking lot at a greenway with portable toilet.

• NEW: Memorial Bridge

Stairway and paved path off Roanoke River Greenway with ramp into the river, nearby parking, trash receptacle.

*As a reminder, during summer 2026, the take-out point at Wasena Park has moved upstream of the construction zone for the In-River Park. This location is not suitable as a put-in spot while construction of the Main Street Bridge is underway and is not recommended for general river recreation during construction of the In-River Park. See the first video for more information.

• NEW: Wasena Park (at Wiley Drive)

Stairway access off the Roanoke River Greenway just upstream of the first Wiley Drive low water bridge.

Large stonework along the shoreline of a river.

• Smith Park

Shoreline access just downstream of the second Wiley Drive low water bridge, parking, restrooms, picnic shelter, grills, playground, trash receptacles, bicycle rack, Roanoke River Greenway.

A group of paddleboarders wearing pfd's gathered along the shoreline of a river, posing for a photo.

A path to the river along the shoreline of a park.

• The Launch at Reserve

Stairway access with canoe/kayak ramp, parking, info kiosk, and access to Star Line Trolley.

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• 13th Street/Bennington Trailhead

ADA access ramp off the Roanoke River Greenway, parking, info kiosk, and trash receptacle.

Decorative mural of water bird on a roadway underpass beside a river and river access ramp.

Ramp leading into a river at an underpass.

Parking lot with permeable pavers at a greenway.

Scenic view of a river at an underpass with rocky shoreline, aquatic vegetation, and blue heron.

Access ramp at a roadway underpass with decorative mural.

Kiosk and boat rack along a paved greenway near a river.

Water Safety

Before you head to the river, there are a few safety considerations to keep in mind. Hear from Trevor Shannon with Roanoke Fire-EMS Emergency Management about things to keep in mind when enjoying the river this summer.

Water Quality

Did you know Roanoke Stormwater takes 45 samples throughout the city every month to test the water quality? Find out more from Gwyn Martin in this helpful video.