The Blueway includes two required portages, with up to three more depending on water levels and skill. Expect hazards like rapids, strainers, and dams that vary with the water. Use our Roanoke Blueway Interactive Maps for specifics; streamflow levels are just estimates. Always check conditions before you start and adjust your plans for safety, especially in high water.
Portages and Hazards
Navigating River Hazards
Bohon Hollow Road (734)
- Potential Hazard
- Latitude 37.249669, Longitude -80.142014 (Roanoke County)
- Passable at normal water levels. Portage required at high water levels (Glenvar 205430). Portage distance 75 ft. Moderate. Exit river right upstream of Bohon Hollow Road (734). Cross Bohon Hollow Road to access river downstream of bridge.
Mill Lane Bridge
- Potential Hazard
- Latitude 37.285353, Longitude -80.082084 (City of Salem)
- Passable at normal water levels. Portage required at approximately 600 cfs or higher (Glenvar 205430). Portage distance 75 ft. Moderate. Exit river right upstream at Greenway parking area. Cross Mill Lane to access river downstream of bridge.
Wasena Park Low Water Bridge
- Potential Hazard
- Latitude 37.263736, Longitude -79.956463 (City of Roanoke)
- Passable at normal water levels. Portage required at approximately 1000 cfs or higher (Roanoke 2055000). Portage distance 75 ft. Moderate. Exit the river left at the bridge. Cross Greenway to access the river downstream of the bridge. Watch for Greenway trail users.
Smith Park Low Water Bridge
- Required Portage
- Latitude 37.257166, Longitude -79.953419 (City of Roanoke)
- Portage distance 75 ft. Easy. Exit the river right at low-water bridge. Cross Roanoke River Greenway to access the river downstream of the low water bridge. Watch for Greenway trail users.
Franklin Road Low Water Dam
- Potential Hazard
- Latitude 37.25526, Longitude -79.949516 (City of Roanoke)
- Passable at gap in low water dam on river right (portage as necessary). Portage distance 50 ft. Moderate. Exit river right. use Roanoke River Greenway to access the river downstream of the low water dam. Watch for Greenway trail users.
Niagara Dam
- Potential Hazard
- Latitude 37.25526, Longitude -79.949516 (City of Roanoke)
- Passable at gap in low water dam on river right (portage as necessary). Portage distance 50 ft. Moderate. Exit river right. use Roanoke River Greenway to access the river downstream of the low water dam. Watch for Greenway trail users.
