The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Franklin County
4.7
(11)
215
hikers
26
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Franklin County traverse a varied landscape, featuring forested hills, river corridors, and open parklands. The region offers a mix of terrain, from tranquil riverside settings to more elevated areas with scenic overlooks. Hikers can explore extensive trail networks within state parks and nature preserves, characterized by woodlands and diverse natural features. This makes Franklin County a suitable destination for outdoor activities across different skill levels.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Franklin County
- The most…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
7.36km
02:14
300m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
3.05km
00:49
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
38
hikers
5.58km
01:43
210m
220m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
12
hikers
4.67km
01:19
90m
100m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
4
hikers
6.27km
01:53
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Parking area at the bottom is closed (Near Dollar General). We parked across the street and walked the gravel up to Star Trail Trailhead.
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This overlook point offers a view of the cascade that falls down Bottom Creek Gorge. The viewpoint is named in honor of Malcolm and Jimmie Black, who were dedicated volunteer monitors at Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve. Bent Mountain Falls, also known as Puncheon Run Falls, is the second highest waterfall in Virginia. It features a series of cascading steps formed by unique rock formations called kettles.
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Chestnut Ridge offers wide, well graded trails just off of the Mill Mountain Parkway. The hiking isn't too strenuous and makes for a good family outing.
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The brightly illuminated star that sits on top of Mill Mountain (1,703ft/519m) was constructed in 1949, and initially meant to only be lit during Christmas season. However, it proved to be so popular that is is now lit year round and gave the city of Roanoke its nickname, "Star City of the South".
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The top of Mill Mountain (1,703 ft) is the ideal place to get a nice sight of Roanoke. It is the ideal place to go enjoy a calm Sunday morning with friends, family or by yourself! It has a little zoo, a little wildflower garden and a large picnic area. The jewel of Mill Mountain is the biggest man-made illuminated star. Lit for the first time in 1949 with the purpose of attracting clients to the businesses of Roanoke, it has now become a landmark that brightens the city's nights.
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The summit of Mill Mountain has an overlook of the city of Roanoke as well as the world's largest illuminated free-standing star.
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Reaching the top of Mill Mountain rewards mountain bikers with stunning bird's-eye views of the city after conquering the challenging ascent. As you power up steep grades through dense forests, the panoramic vistas of downtown and the surrounding valleys will motivate you onward through the final switchbacks.
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This old cabin on the side of the trail is what remains of the Trail Family Cabin. It is considered to be an accurate representation of what a lot of the early pioneer cabins looked like in the Appalachian area. You can't actually go inside the cabin, but you can look around the outside, and you can even see through the log walls into the interior of it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Franklin County?
Franklin County offers around two dozen family-friendly hiking trails, with the majority being easy to moderate in difficulty. This makes it a great destination for families looking to explore the outdoors together.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Franklin County?
You can expect a diverse range of terrain across Franklin County. Depending on the specific location, trails might lead you through serene riverside settings, lush forested hills, or offer scenic views from higher elevations. Many trails are well-maintained and suitable for various ages.
Are there any easy loop trails suitable for families?
Yes, Franklin County has several easy loop trails perfect for families. For example, the Chestnut Ridge Loop Trail is an easy option, as is the Star and Monument Trail Loop, both offering pleasant walks without significant elevation changes.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Franklin County?
The family-friendly trails in Franklin County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the natural beauty, and the accessibility for all ages, making it a popular choice for outdoor family adventures.
Are there any trails with notable natural features like waterfalls or scenic overlooks?
While specific waterfall trails aren't detailed in this guide, Franklin County, depending on its location, is known for natural features. For instance, some Franklin Counties boast spectacular waterfalls like Angel Falls or Smalls Falls, and many offer scenic overlooks such as those found in Michaux State Forest (PA) or the Missouri River Overlook (MO).
Are there any longer, moderate family hikes available?
For families looking for a slightly longer and more challenging experience, the Monument, Big Sunny and Star Trail is a moderate option that covers over 7 kilometers with some elevation gain, offering a rewarding adventure.
What are some good options for shorter family hikes with kids?
Many of the easy trails are suitable for shorter outings with kids. The Chestnut Ridge Loop Trail is just over 3 kilometers, making it a great choice for a quick and enjoyable walk with younger children.
Are there any trails that offer historical or unique features?
Beyond natural beauty, some Franklin Counties offer unique attractions. For example, Caledonia State Park in Pennsylvania houses the Pennsylvania Forest Fire Museum, and nearby Pine Grove Furnace State Park has iron furnace ruins from the American Revolutionary War, providing an educational element to your hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Franklin County?
The best time to hike with family in Franklin County largely depends on the specific location and your preferences. Generally, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring bringing wildflowers and fall showcasing vibrant foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be mindful of warmer temperatures and potential humidity.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for spotting wildlife?
Many of Franklin County's forested areas and parklands provide opportunities for wildlife spotting. Trails through areas like Michaux State Forest (PA) or the various metro parks (OH) are excellent for observing local fauna, including various bird species, deer, and smaller woodland creatures. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times for sightings.
Is there a good trail for a family looking for a moderate distance walk?
Absolutely. The Knight & Johnston Trail offers a moderate distance of over 6 kilometers with an easy difficulty rating, making it a great choice for families who want to spend a bit more time on the trail without tackling steep climbs.
Are there any trails with good views or overlooks?
Yes, many trails in Franklin County offer rewarding views. For instance, the Smart View Loop Trail is an easy option that provides scenic vistas. In some Franklin Counties, locations like Buzzard Peak or Chimney Rocks offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
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