Hiking and Nature Viewing, Biking, and Horseback Riding
The trail system and service roads at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve are available for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The terrain is moderately to steeply sloped, with an elevation gain of more than 1,000 feet from the reservoir to the peaks of the surrounding mountains.
Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is mostly forested with several different forest natural communities, perennial and intermittent streams, seasonal wetlands, and the reservoir, all of which provide diverse wildlife habitats. The natural reserve also harbors many rare or unusual species and natural features, including bald eagles and shale barrens.
For the enjoyment of all visitors, trail users are asked to be courteous; bikers should yield to hikers; bikers and hikers should yield to horseback riders. To prevent vegetation damage and potential soil erosion, ALL trail users must stay on trails and service roads at all times.
In order to keep the cove’s watershed free of pollutants that could affect the cove’s water quality, it is essential that horseback riders abide by the following regulation: Horseback riders must not leave any manure, hay or other debris in the Boat Landing parking lot, picnic area or any part of the reserve. This regulation must be followed or horseback riding at the natural reserve could be discontinued.
A Carvins Cove Trail Map is available on the Roanoke Parks and Recreation website.
The Roanoke Valley Greenways also offer many other options for Hiking, Biking & Running in the area. You can download an 11x17 brochure of the current Greenways in the Roanoke Valley or visit the Greenways website for more information.
Land use fees:
Effective July 1, 2008
Daily permit: $2.00 per person
Annual permit: $20.00 per person
Permits may be purchased at the Carvins Cove Boat Landing, seven days a week; April 1 through September 30, 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.; October 1 through March 31, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Land use permits may also be purchased at Just the Right Gear on Route 311. Phone: 540-384-7800. For more information, call the Carvins Cove Boat Landing at 540-563-9170
Land use hours:
April 1 through September 30: Seven days a week, 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
October 1 through March 31: Seven days a week, 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.