Memorial Bridge – Wasena Park loop from Grandin Court

If you're looking for a scenic and accessible jogging route in Roanoke, the Memorial Bridge – Wasena Park loop from Grandin Court is a solid choice. This moderate 6.3-mile (10.2 km) loop, with a manageable 204 feet (62 metres) of elevation gain, can typically be completed in just over an hour, making it perfect for a consistent workout or a leisurely run through varied urban and natural landscapes.

What to expect on Memorial Bridge – Wasena Park loop from Grandin Court

This route offers a delightful blend of riverside tranquility and urban park amenities, primarily following the paved surfaces of the Roanoke River Greenway. You'll jog alongside the Roanoke River, where the bottomlands are lined with willows, maples, and oaks, and the shorelines are a mix of rock and grass. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including various birds like kingfishers and herons, especially during migration, as well as dragonflies. The trail takes you through Wasena Park, a vibrant community hub with green spaces, and crosses the historic Memorial Bridge, connecting Grandin Village with central Roanoke. While rated moderate, the terrain features what some call "friendly elevation," providing a varied but generally manageable challenge suitable for most skill levels.

Planning your visit

Starting from the Grandin Court area, this loop is easily accessible. However, it's crucial to be aware of ongoing construction. The Wasena Bridge replacement project, expected to last two years from April 2024, means the Roanoke River Greenway section underneath is closed. A marked detour reroutes traffic along Winchester Avenue, Main Street, and Winona Avenue, requiring you to share streets with automobiles. Additionally, an in-river park project near Wasena Park may impact river access between Memorial Bridge and Smith Park, so plan accordingly.

Trail details

• Distance: 6.3 miles (10.2 km)
• Elevation gain: 204 feet (62 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 3 minutes