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Starkey Swamp
4.8 ★★★★★ 8 Google reviews · Running trail in Cave Spring, Virginia · Open 24 hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Boardwalk
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Open 24 hours
Confirmed from Starkey Swamp's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
What runners say about Starkey Swamp
I really enjoyed this little stroll through the "swamp". The name isn't that inviting but I assure you that the trail is worth it. It's a very easy and short walking trail with a low platform that makes for a peaceful stroll.
This is a great walking and running trail. This starts at South County Library and takes you through baseball and soccer fields. You can also cross the road to walk around the neighborhood or school nearby.
Small little local trail. Can either start at the large library parking lot (entrance behind the patio area by the library entrance - 3 flights of steps to the start of library path) Library entrance is not for wheelchair access due to stairs Left goes on boardwalk to school, other crushed rocks path goes to park.
Nice little trail with a boardwalk that connects the library and the Starkey local park. Taking the boardwalk route it will exit you to the Merriman road. With the boardwalk made of wood we noticed quite a few carpenter bees protecting their little holes. Male carpenter bees have no stingers though!
Trail conditions & character
“Nice little trail with a boardwalk that connects the library and the Starkey local park.”
Plan your run at Starkey Swamp
The practical stuff
- AccessOpen 24 hours — no gate to beat, so a 5am or a 10pm run both work
- SurfaceBoardwalk — flat and scenic, and slick when wet, so watch your footing
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteroanokecountyparks.com
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Open 24 hours |
| Tuesday | Open 24 hours |
| Wednesday | Open 24 hours |
| Thursday | Open 24 hours |
| Friday | Open 24 hours |
| Saturday | Open 24 hours |
| Sunday | Open 24 hours |
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