Out of curiosity I Googled the term "Dog and Pony Show" to find the definition, and it read: "an elaborate display or presentation, especially as part of a promotional campaign."
Well to me that is the epitome of Virginia State Park.
There are plenty of terms to use for different state parks, outdoorsy, rustic, scenic, fun, but stunning, knock-your-socks-off gorgeous can really only be applied to Grayson Highlands State Park. If you don't believe me, then let me show you:
Stunning (adj):
causing a strong emotional reaction because of unexpectedness <we suffered a stunning defeat at the hands of the bottom-ranked team in the division.
Synonyms amazing, astonishing, astounding, blindsiding, dumbfounding (also dumfounding), eye-opening, flabbergasting, jarring, jaw-dropping, jolting, shocking, startling, stupefying, awesome, eye-opening, fabulous, miraculous, portentous, prodigious, staggering, stupendous, sublime, surprising, wonderful, wondrous.
General Information
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.
Altitude and Weather
Altitude and Weather
Always be prepared for the weather to change dramatically. The elevation at this park provides a larger drop in temperature than you may be accustomed to.
Overnighting
There are no cabins, but there is a fantastic campground, click here for information about spending the night at Grayson Highlands.
Pets
Dogs are allowed to hike the trails with you if they are kept under control and on a leash no longer than 6''. We saw many dogs on our visit, this is why I thought of the "dog and pony show" bit. If your dog is a barker, please be considerate of other hikers and wildlife.
More information about this park, click here.
I implore you to make time in your schedule to visit Grayson Highlands State Park, now or in the fall, you will kick yourself if you don't! (And we don't want anyone kicking themselves). This park is the crown jewel.