Grayson Highlands State Park offers a variety of trails that
provide visitors with a multitude of options. Whether you're out for
a day hike or looking to do a week-long journey,
Grayson Highlands is a place every visitor should be sure
to experience.
Best Hikes
- Looking for a relatively easy day hike?
Check out the Wilson Trail.
This 2-mile loop borders Wilson Creek and offers
many spots to step off the trail and onto the massive rock
slabs that line the creek. There are also a few popular
swimming and fishing holes along the trail that
can turn this short hike into a day-long adventure.The trail
is also bordered by rhododendron and makes for
a beautiful hike during their peak season in late June/early July.
Look for the red blaze to let you know
you're still on the Wilson
- Want to get some up close and personal experiences
with the Grayson Highlands wildlife?
Park at Massie Gap and
hike down the hill to the Rhododendron Trail.
Once you're up to where the Appalachian Trail and the
Rhododendron Trail meet, you're in
miniature pony territory! These wild, miniature horses
are protected by the park, and it is highly
recommended that you not feed
or harass the horses. They are relatively used to visitors, but never
forget that they are wild, unpredictable creatures.
Observe with caution. This trail also provides opportunities
to pick the park's blueberries. The berries are usually
ripe during the first few weeks of August, so
be sure to get some before
they're all gone!
- Want a more demanding hike with spectacular views?
Park at Massie Gap and take the
Rhododendron Trail to the
Appalachian Trail. From there, it's a decent climb to
Mount Rogers which, at 5,729ft, is the highest point in Virginia!
The trail goes along Wilburn Ridge, which provides
a panoramic view of the Highlands area.
It's about an 8-mile hike,
so be prepared to be out
all day.
- Need help finding a trail that's suitable for your skill level?
The park's interpreters and naturalists are available
at the park's entrance to offer any bit of advice you might need.
