Welcome to the Roanoke Valley Bird Club! The club meets at 7 pm every second Monday of the month September through May. Guests are always welcomed! Meetings take place at the Roanoke Council of Garden […]

Roanoke Valley Bird Club

Home - Roanoke Valley Bird Club

Welcome to the Roanoke Valley Bird Club! The club meets at 7 pm every second Monday of the month September through May. Guests are always welcomed! Meetings take place at the Roanoke Council of Garden Clubs Building, 3640 Colonial Ave, Roanoke, Virginia 24018 in the Cave Spring area, south Roanoke county.

Speakers present on a wide range of bird-related topics, with photographs, video presentations and occasional live bird exhibits. The bird club also leads regular field trips to areas of interest with great birding! Meetings and field trips are free and you do not have to be a member to attend these events. Guests are always welcomed. Meetings also cover field sightings of birds in the Roanoke area. After the meeting we gather for refreshments.

Club members receive a monthly newsletter, our source of information about upcoming programs and field trips as well as the latest in birding facts and news.  Members may also attend overnight field trips sponsored by the Virginia Society of Ornithology.

For more information see http://roanokevalleybirdclub.com/

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Library Birding Backpacks  – a project of the Roanoke Valley Bird Club

Did you know you can now check out birding backpacks at your local Roanoke County, Roanoke City, Salem and Botetourt County library just like a book? Birding backpacks are a great way to get started in birding.  Ask at the reference desk!

These backpacks put high-quality adult binoculars, guides and information into your hands including ideas for birding with children. This could be the start of a great lifelong hobby. Every Library Birding Backpack includes:

  • Adult binoculars.
  • Birding field guides
  • Great information to get you started in birding
  • Tips for birding with children
  • Directions to birding hot spots in the Roanoke Valley and Botetourt
  • Information about popular birding apps

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BIRDING HOTSPOTS

Birds are found everywhere. Start right around your own backyard and neighborhood. To see a wider variety of birds, try looking along creeks, in wetlands, fields and along the edges of and in woods. Remember birds are most active early morning and late afternoon. Check out these birding hotspots in our region for varied habitats.

Roanoke City, Roanoke County and Salem

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve: 9644 Reservoir Road, Roanoke, VA 24019. www.playroanoke.com contains more than 12,000 acres of mixed forest, a 630 acre reservoir, picnic area, and 60 miles of trails that are good for viewing spring and fall migrants as well as birds that live here year-round. The boat landing is a good area to look for waterfowl and hawks. There is a small fee for a vehicle pass.

Bent Mountain Center: 10148 Tinsley Lane, Bent Mountain, VA 24059 www.bentmountaincenter.com A trail behind the Center leads to a large swampy area with a boardwalk that gets you out into the wetlands. This area is good for willow flycatchers as well as yellow warblers, common yellowthroats, catbirds, and more.

Greenways in Roanoke City, Roanoke County, and Salem: www.greenways.org The Greenway network includes over 400 miles of paved and natural surface trails. The Roanoke River, Tinker Creek and Wolf Creek Greenways are especially good for spotting a wide variety of birds.

Mill Mountain Park: 2198 Mill Mountain Spur, Roanoke, VA 24014 www.playroanoke.com Walk the trails around the top of Mill Mountain, including the Wildflower Garden. Go early in the morning or early evening when there are fewer people and more bird activity.

Roanoke Mountain Day-Use Picnic Area: Located on Blue Ridge Parkway milepost 120.4 onto Mill Mountain Spur Road The road around the former campground is good for observing a variety of birds. Owls and woodpeckers have been seen and heard here.

South County Library Trail: 6303 Merriman Road, Roanoke, VA 24018 www.roanokecountyva.gov Use the steps behind the library down to the trail that includes a 900-foot-long boardwalk through a natural wetland. This is an excellent area for birding. Take a connecting trail to Starkey Park for additional variety of habitat.

Botetourt County

Botetourt Center at Greenfield: Located off of Route 220 North, about 4 miles north of Exit 150B on I-81. Take a left at the entrance to Greenfield Education and Training Center. Park in the second lot on the right. Then walk the cinder surfaced Cherry Blossom Trail along the pond towards the dam at the far end. This pond is excellent for ducks and other waterfowl in season, and there are usually a wide variety of birds in the vegetation on either side of the trail.

Harvey’s Knob Overlook: Located at milepost 95.5 on the Blue Ridge Parkway https://dwr.virginia.gov/vbwt/sites/harveys-knob-overlook/ This is a good place to observe thousands of hawks and eagles migrating in the fall. During that time there often are expert birders present conducting a bird census who are happy to share their knowledge. Bring a chair and a snack and stay for a while.

Nearby Breweries

  • Barrel Chest Wine and Beer Expand Collapse

    Barrel Chest has Roanoke’s largest, most expertly curated selection of craft beer and fine wine. It is the only retail store in the area to have beer on tap, wine by the glass, and growler fills to go. Beer options include plenty of names you know and beers brewed on site.

    Open daily.

  • Big Lick Brewing Company Expand Collapse

    Big Lick Brewing Company was Roanoke’s first nano brewery and taproom; while it has grown the idea that it is “specializing in craft beer with an emphasis on quality and variety” has not. You might find anything from a cream ale to IPA to porter at any given time.

    The taproom is open Wednesday through Saturday. Bring your growler for a fill-up to go.

  • Golden Cactus Brewery Expand Collapse

    We brew every week, usually a beer we’ve never made before to keep things fun and fresh. We’re colorful, kid friendly, and love to share behind the scenes of how we brew. Visiting us is like visiting your grandma’s greenhouse on a warm Spring day.

    Hours of Operation

    Mon. – Thurs. 3 pm – 9pm
    Fri. – Sat.  12 pm – 10 pm
    Sun. 1 pm – 8 pm

  • Golden Cactus Brewing Expand Collapse

    Specialty craft beer brewed in Downtown Roanoke, Virginia.

  • Hammer & Forge Brewing Co. Expand Collapse

    Hammer & Forge Brewing Company exists as a celebration of the hard workers in every industry! The company brews each beer to honor the dedication of everyday hard working people; individuals who see each new day as an opportunity to improve themselves and the world around them.

    Life is not about the end goal; life is an adventure meant to be enjoyed with the people you love by learning new things and experiencing new places. Our journey just happens to include making great beer!

    Open Thursday through Saturday.

  • Olde Salem Brewing Company – Roanoke Expand Collapse

    The newest Olde Salem Brewing Company location is on the corner of Church and Market Streets in Downtown Roanoke. Come have a beer with us.

    Monday-Thursday: 11am-9pm
    Friday-Saturday: 11am-11pm
    Sunday: 11am-8pm

    Be sure to check out our Salem location too.

  • Olde Salem Brewing Company – Salem Expand Collapse

    Located at the very heart of Salem Virginia’s Historic Main Street District, Olde Salem Brewing Co. exudes history. The building was constructed just 114 years after the town was founded in 1806 by James Simpson; and was home to a well known appliance store for decades. Olde Salem believes its craft beers hold a piece of that history in every glass.

    Open Tuesday through Sunday.

    Be sure to check out our downtown Roanoke location on the corner of Church and Market Streets.

  • Parkway Brewing Company Expand Collapse

    Parkway Brewing Company is a 4 vessel, 30 bbl micro-brewery with a 17,000 barrel capacity, in Salem, Virginia, specializing in distinctive ales for the discriminating beer enthusiast. Founded in 2012, Parkway Brewing offers several beers exclusively on-site, as well as flagship beers sold in bottles and kegs throughout Virginia.

    Random live music, from old-time bluegrass to blues and rock, and a variety of food trucks make this a destination for weary travelers who need a break from driving on Interstate 81. A casual, low-key vibe, along with some stellar brews keep the locals coming back for more. Family friendly and boasting an outdoor beer garden, Parkway Brewing has become one of Salem’s most unique and welcome community assets.

    The tasting room is open seven days a week:

    • Mon. and Tues:  2-8pm
    • Wed. and Thurs:  2-9pm
    • Fri. and Sat: 12-9pm
    • Sunday:  12-8pm
  • Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage Expand Collapse

    Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage has 23 rotating taps of Starr Hill craft beer, including special pilot batches that you can only find in Roanoke. The location has live music and open mic nights and there’s often a food truck on-site. Brewery is open daily.

  • Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery Expand Collapse

    The Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery – Roanoke is located in the heart of Downtown directly across from Center in the Square. The kitchen specializes in creating locally-sourced, beer-infused dishes designed to complement the season as well as what’s on tap. From Southern classics to modern favorites and our kid’s menu, you’ll find something for everyone. Location serves flagship and seasonal beers, plus unique, locally focused styles brewed on the pilot system and from other taprooms.

  • Twin Creeks Brewing Co. Expand Collapse

    Twin Creeks Brewing Company is Vinton and Roanoke County’s first micro-brewery. The brewery has plenty of options on tap from blonde ales to IPAs to porters. The brewery also has food trucks and live music on site. Extra parking at Vinton Farmer’s Market, Between the farmer’s market and post office, and Vinton Library (after hours).

    Open Thursday through Saturday.

  • Twin Creeks Brewpub at Explore Park Expand Collapse

    Twin Creeks Brewpub is a brewery and restaurant located in the historic Brugh Tavern within Explore Park. Amenities include a full-service restaurant with burgers, sides and appetizers, outdoor fire pits, a Virginia wine and cider bar, and outdoor music events. Additionally, the brewpub can host private events, showers, and parties. Spend the day enjoying the wonderful activities found in Explore Park and relaxed afterward in this rustic and quaint brewpub.

  • Twisted Track Brewpub Expand Collapse

    The Twisted Track Brewpub thrives to be a destination for the whole valley and beyond; the premier brewery in the Roanoke Valley, brewing everything from traditional European ales to American IPAs , stouts and sours, while specializing in lagers. The aim is to add a new twist to the existing craft beer scene and to serve and nurture our wonderful community – our home.

    In addition to hand crafted beer, we offer pub fare with yet another twist and a selection of wines, ciders and soft drinks – something for everyone.

    Open hours: 4:00pm to 9:00pm Tues. thru Thurs., 12:00pm to 10:00pm Fri./Sat., and 12:00pm to 7:00pm Sun

Nearby Wineries

  • AmRhein’s Wine Cellars Expand Collapse

    AmRhein’s Wine Cellars, a family-owned winery since 1999, is at an elevation of 2,500 feet just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 136.

    Just 20 minutes from Roanoke and less than two hours from Charlottesville, Lynchburg and Greensboro, N.C. Specializing in Virginia-style wines from 100 percent estate grown grapes with 35,000 vines in three vineyard locations (Bent Mountain, Franklin County, and Botetourt) producing more than 15 different wines. Sit on the veranda and enjoy the cool mountain breezes, while sampling a few award-winning wines.

  • Valhalla Vineyards Expand Collapse

    One of Virginia’s most scenic wineries, perched on a 2,000 foot mountain overlooking the Roanoke Region. Wines are made in the French minimalist fashion and aged in an underground barrel cave, which was blasted 60 feet beneath the vineyard.

    The 21 acre vineyard produces world class Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Merlot, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc and more. Decomposing granite soils and unique climate (similar to Rhone Valley of France) afford the premier terroir on the East Coast.

    Valhalla is open for tours, tastings, and picnicking from April through December on Saturdays and Sundays. Fridays nights feature live music from 5:30-7:30 p.m. (Winery and cave tours are available.)

Nearby Food

Nearby Shopping & Gear

  • Fleet Feet Pub Runs and Training Programs Expand Collapse

    Fleet Feet Sports Pub Runs

    • Fleet Feet Sports Pub Runs take place every Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Mellow Mushroom. Pub Runs will include a three and five mile route. FREE and open to the public!
    • Fleet Feet Sports VIPR (Very Important Pub Runner) Membership presented by Brooks is a great way to earn prizes, receive special discounts and have a digital check-in process at the Fleet Feet Sports Pub Runs.  You sign up for the VIPR Membership once per calendar year and can earn Lifetime Points that will earn you some really cool prizes!

    Fleet Feet Sports Training Programs

    • Whether you want to start walking, or run your first marathon, Fleet Feet Sports has a fitness program that will FIT your needs!  Be part of the movement and come train with us! We offer training programs year-round!
  • Fleet Feet Sports Expand Collapse

    Fleet Feet Sports offers a welcoming environment where runners, walkers and fitness enthusiasts of all abilities receive unparalleled service and support. Since 2003, Fleet Feet Sports, Roanoke has been dedicated to creating an inclusive environment in which all types of people receive outstanding service in the fitting of running, walking and fitness shoes as well as accessories and apparel for the active lifestyle.

    Fleet Feet Sports is committed to enhancing and growing the local running and walking community, and offering educational resources and training opportunities to assist you in achieving your fitness goals.

  • FRIENDS of the Blue Ridge Expand Collapse

    FRIENDS is a non-profit, volunteer organization that is dedicated to preserving and protecting the Blue Ridge Parkway, a national treasure. FRIENDS programs focus on preservation, protection and education. Saving Parkway Views is the organization’s signature project.

    Volunteers help preserve the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway and have a lot of fun while doing something great for the environment and the Parkway’s future.

  • Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society Expand Collapse

    The Roanoke Valley Astronomical Society is an organization of amateur astronomers dedicated to the pursuit of astronomical observational and photographic activities. Meetings are held on the third Monday of each month. Meetings are open to the public. Observing sessions are held one or two weekends a month at a dark-sky site. No telescope is needed to participate.

  • RunAbout Sports Roanoke Expand Collapse

    RunAbout Sports Roanoke is a specialty running store located in the Cave Spring area of Roanoke. Runabout Sports is unique because their expert staff is trained to help you the customer find the correct shoe by analyzing the customer’s biomechanical needs.

    Run with a casual group of runners and train for events.

    Events can be found in the RunAbout Sports Roanoke Facebook page.

  • RunAbout Sports Training Group Expand Collapse

    Run with a casual group of runners and train for events.

    • Activities: Meet on Saturdays at 7 a.m. as a group for our long runs; other shorter runs throughout the week. Events can be found in the RunAbout Sports Roanoke Facebook page.
    • Who should join: Anyone that wants to run longer distances with a group of friends.
    • Cost: Free
  • Trek Bicycle Roanoke Expand Collapse

    Trek Bicycle Roanoke is your destination for the latest products from Trek and Bontrager.

    Trek Roanoke is a full service bike shop offering new bikes for sale and professional repair on all makes and models. The shop carries everything you need to make your ride safer, more enjoyable, and most importantly – more fun!

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