The Roanoke River Greenway could possibly be one of the city’s least-talked about treasure troves of outdoor fun. Split into fairly distinct sections by Roanoke Memorial Hospital, it has a little bit of something for everyone.

It runs from Wasena park to Bennington Road near the Sewage Treatment Plant in Southeast Roanoke. Or, theoretically, from the plant to Wasena. Starting at Wasena, though, the first part of the greenway is kid- and family-friendly, slightly downhill and a very easy ride, walk or run. There’s ample parking, plenty of playgrounds and even a few places to have a break and a picnic lunch.

From the hospital to the other end of the trail, you’ll find a mostly scenic route close to the river and generally away from the road. Perfect for a morning walk with Fido or an afternoon bike ride.

New program offers free use of bikes

A new program in Roanoke welcomes any and all Roanokers to ride their bikes. No bike? They’ll give you one. For free. Not for keeps, but for a day. With five finalized locations and just as many in the process of becoming official, Sharebike hopes to encourage bike usage and commuting by bicycle in the Roanoke Valley.

How to get a bike: Go to any of the official Sharebike locations, show a picture ID and the bike is yours for the day. At this time you must return the bike to the same place you got it, but a system is being created to digitally connect all Sharebike locations. (Note: You must be 18 or older to participate in the Sharebike program).

Don’t have an ID? Head over to the Sharebike headquarters and they’ll make you one.

Locations:

Black Dog Salvage, 902 13th St. S.W. 343-6200
Grandin Gardnens, 1731 Grandin Road S.W. 581-0530.
Wildflower Cafe, 1212 4th St. S.W. 343-4543.
Fork in the Alley, in the Alley behind 2123 Crystal Spring Ave. 982-3675.
Sharebike, 32 Market Square. 982-8289.* (There is a small maintenance fee of $3 for four hours or $6 per day to borrow a bike from headquarters).

How to help: Sharebike accepts donations of bicycles, money and manpower. While they’re fairly stocked on bikes, they can always use extra cash and extra hands. Check out the website (sharebike.org) for a current list of volunteer needs.