Backpacker Magazine said "Ten trails. Ten unmatched miles each. Get maximum bang for each boot step on hikes that our most-traveled contributors call their all-time favorites."
Click Perfect 10: North America’s 10 Most Memorable Hikes
A young hiker has the opportunity to meet the wild ponies of Grayson Highlands
The late summer view at Grayson Highlands includes the foothills and wild blueberry bushes
The trail head and exit back to the parking area from the Rhododendron Trail
The high elevation can include tricky weather so be prepared
Backpackers excited to hike the trail from the overnight parking lot
ABOUT
Near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia's two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Facilities include a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks. Scenic horse trails and a horse camping area with electric and water hookups, stables and parking for trailers are available. The park provides year-round access to the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail.
HOURS
8:30 a.m. – 8:30 p.m.
LOCATION
The park is on U.S. 58 midway between Independence and Damascus and is reached from I-81 at Exit 45 in Marion; turn south on Route 16 and travel 33 miles to US 58 in the community of Volney. Turn right onto US 58. Travel eight miles to the park's entrance. Click here for a Google Map.