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".

AverieOutside

December 21, 2023

Cycling

The summit of Mill Mountain has an overlook of the city of Roanoke as well as the world's largest illuminated free-standing star.

Salvador Hernández

January 14, 2024

Running

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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Best routes to Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain

4.5

(4)

hikers

1. Mill Mountain & Roanoke Star loop

5.58km

01:43

210m

220m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

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2. Mill Mountain loop via Monument Trail — Roanoke

9.77km

02:51

260m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

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3. Roanoke City Market – Mill Mountain Star loop from Roanoke

10.1km

02:55

260m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Details

Informations

Elevation 520 m

Weather

Today

Wednesday 11 February

14°C

3°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h

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Location: Roanoke, Virginia, United States

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Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain

1. Mill Mountain & Roanoke Star loop

2. Mill Mountain loop via Monument Trail — Roanoke

3. Roanoke City Market – Mill Mountain Star loop from Roanoke

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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