I am in the early stages of planning a short 4-5 day hike in mid-October. Looking to hike somewhere arund the Roanoke area (I am from Harrisburg and another hiker is from SC so it's in the middle for both of us).

I've orderd the maps/guide but don't have them yet. Just looking for some good suggestions as we're totally unfamiliar with the area. It'd be cool to hit some of the "big sights" like McAfee knob and Dragons' tooth perhaps.

In addition, any suggestions on shuttles/lodging in the area? Weather conditions that time of year? Other special considerations?

Thanks!