Description
Walrond Park is a 48-acre publically-owned park facility operated by the Roanoke County Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism. A key feature in the park is a spring-fed pond that is home to local songbirds and migratory waterfowl such as geese and ducks.
Downstream from the pond is an approximately 3.5-acre wetland area that is home to diversity of plant and animal life. During migration, rusty blackbirds, Lincoln’s sparrows, and swamp sparrows can be seen. The Department has constructed a 2/3-mile long stone-surface loop trail around the pond and wetland, including a 200 linear foot raised boardwalk trail that extends into the central area of the wetland. The raised boardwalk trail terminates in a 12’x16′ wildlife viewing platform that is envisioned to provide an up-close glimpse into the flora and fauna of the wetland. Cooper’s hawks and great blue herons have been observed hunting in this wetland.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Walrond Park (as reported to eBird)
- Mallard
- Blue Jay
- American Crow
- European Starling
- Turkey Vulture
- Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Northern Flicker
- Carolina Chickadee
- Carolina Wren
- Northern Mockingbird
Amenities & Access Considerations
Amenities
- Hiking Trails
- Parking
- Restrooms
- Observation Platform
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 6824 Walrond Dr., Roanoke, VA 24019
From the intersection of I-581 and US-460 in Roanoke, head north on I-581, use the right 2 lanes to take exit 1N to merge onto I-81 N/US-220 N toward Lexington, take exit 146 toward Hollins/Cloverdale and merge onto Plantation Rd, turn right onto Walrond Dr, turn right onto Walrond Park Rd and follow it to the parking area.
What to Know Before Visiting
The Virginia Bird and Wildlife Trail is a network of more than 500 premier wildlife viewing sites across the state. Walk a nature trail, paddle a river, or enjoy a scenic overlook and you’ll soon understand what makes Virginia a premier destination for birding and wildlife viewing.