Most mountain hikes in Virginia lead to an impressive overview. Today's feature adventure is a trail that not only leads you to a mountain with a view but also lands you at the base of one of our state's most unique attractions. The Mill Mountain Star in Roanoke, Virginia holds an impressive record: it's the largest freestanding illuminated man-made star in the world. Even more impressive? It's completely free to visit!

The Roanoke Star has become a symbol for the city ever since its construction in 1949. The idea was started by the Roanoke Merchants Association, a group that wanted to promote the city's publicity and commerce. The project cost $28,000, most of which was acquired through local fundraising efforts. The Roy C. Kinsey Sign Company was contracted for the job, Roanoke Iron and Bridge Works designed the steel support tower, and the nearly 2,000 feet of neon tubing was created by Corning Glass Works. Still proudly standing over Roanoke today, the completed star measures 88.5 feet tall and stands on an 8-story-tall steel structure that weighs 60,000 pounds. It's so magnificent, in fact, that when illuminated, it can be seen from 60 miles away.

Originally, the star was only going to be lit during the Christmas season. However, due to its immense popularity, the Merchant's Association agreed to have it on year-round. Typically, the star would shine white; however, between 1957 and 1976, it would turn red to indicate that there had been a traffic fatality in the area. The star has changed its colors depending on tragedies and celebrations throughout the nation, and today, it's an iconic part of the Roanoke landscape. In fact, the city describes it as its "front porch light."

There are a couple of ways to access the star, and it's worth getting to, not just to admire the attraction itself but for the views of the Roanoke Valley below. The Star Trail is a 3.3-mile trek that will take you up and back again. It's considered moderate due to the 775 feet of elevation gain; however, most visitors can complete it within two hours. Hikers recommend packing plenty of water and wearing sturdy shoes to help navigate the steeper, rockier sections. Otherwise, the trail is well-maintained and shaded for the most part.

Have you visited the Mill Mountain Star recently? What did you think of this free attraction in Virginia? Be sure to share this article with someone you'd like to go with! And, if you need a place to stay, check out these unique vacation rentals in Roanoke, Virginia.

Looking for even more magnificent man-made wonders in Virginia? Take a look at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.