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Grayson Highlands State Park adventures

Grayson Highlands State Park Adventures

Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia is known for its stunning mountain vistas and wild ponies. It offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

4,502
Acres Protected
13
Miles of Trails
183,000
Annual Visitors
1965
Year Established

Popular Activities

Plan Your Visit

Everything you need to know to prepare for an unforgettable trip to Grayson Highlands State Park.

Entrance Requirements

Modest entrance fee required for vehicle access.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are ideal times to visit due to pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Visitor Information

The Grayson Highlands Visitor Center offers exhibits and information.

Getting There

Accessible via US-58 with paved roads leading to main parking areas.

Weather & Climate

Grayson Highlands experiences cool summers, with temperatures often 10–15 degrees cooler than surrounding areas, and cold, snowy winters. Weather can change rapidly, especially at higher elevations.

Conservation Efforts

Ongoing conservation efforts focus on maintaining habitat for the wild ponies and managing visitor impact on fragile ecosystems.

Camping in Grayson Highlands State Park

Find the perfect spot to stay overnight and immerse yourself in the details.

Hickory Ridge Campground

Developed
Reservations Required

Located near the main entrance, offering modern amenities and close access to trails.

Equestrian Campground

Primitive
Reservations Required

Designed for visitors with horses, providing direct access to horse trails.

Top Trails

Rhododendron Trail

Easy
1.5 miles

Connects to the Appalachian Trail and offers opportunities to see ponies.

Twin Pinnacles Trail

Moderate
1.6 miles

Provides stunning panoramic views from its high points.

Wilburn Ridge Trail

Hard
2.5 miles

Features challenging terrain and dramatic rock formations.

Massie Gap to Mount Rogers

Hard
8.5 miles

Traverse to Virginia's highest point with sweeping vistas.

Trailblazer Tips

Bring binoculars for better pony viewing opportunities.

Summer offers mild temperatures, but sudden weather changes can occur due to elevation.

Campgrounds can fill up quickly in peak seasons; consider reservations early.

Carry a map as cell reception can be unreliable in the park.

Helpful Resources