How do you see the ponies at Grayson Highlands?
To see the ponies, start at Massie Gap and hike the Rhododendron Trail, which connects to a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Following this moderately challenging trail leads across Wilburn Ridge to Rhododendron Gap, one of the best spots in the park to see the ponies.
Can you drive through Grayson Highlands State Park?
It is a beautiful drive along the improved Route 58 from Marion, VA to Grayson Highlands State Park, Mouth of Wilson, near Mount Rogers, this highest point in this state at the very top of Virginia. We visited here 25 years ago, and roads have definitely gotten much better.
How long of a hike is Grayson Highlands State Park?
2.1 miles
If you take a look at the park map, you’ll see that more than a dozen hiking trails criss-cross Grayson Highlands State Park. There are also two campgrounds….Subscribe Now.
| Trail Stats | |
|---|---|
| Length | 2.1 miles |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trail Type | Loop |
| Elevation Gain | 547 feet |
How much does it cost to go to Grayson Highlands?
over a year ago. Five dollars/car. Pretty sure the times are generally 8a – 10p, but I wouldn’t recommend hiking down through there after dark. Plan to be back at least near your vehicle by dark unless camping overnight.
How many ponies are in Grayson Highlands?
Best of all, more than 100 wild ponies roam Grayson Highlands and the neighboring Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, which is a 200,000-acre swath of the massive Jefferson National Forest.
Why are the Grayson Highlands ponies?
Before the Grayson Highlands became a state park in 1965, the mountains were covered in farmland grazed by cattle and a few ponies. In 1974, Bill Pugh and another pony owner brought 20 ponies to the park to maintain the grassy balds that were no longer being grazed.
How many wild ponies are in the Grayson Highlands?
100 wild ponies
Best of all, more than 100 wild ponies roam Grayson Highlands and the neighboring Mount Rogers National Recreation Area, which is a 200,000-acre swath of the massive Jefferson National Forest.
Can you backpack in Grayson Highlands?
Grayson Highlands abuts Mount Rogers Recreational Area, and all backpacking routes weave through both. Since overnight primitive camping isn’t allowed in the park itself, you have to cross the boundary to pitch your tent.
How hard is the hike to Grayson Highlands?
It’s a gentle uphill climb to Wilburn Ridge. You’ll eventually see the huge rocks in the distance. Take the short spur trail through the grass to reach it. After some fun rock climbing and Instagram-worthy photos, you can return to the Rhododendron Trail and continue on to the Appalachian Trail if you’d like.
How do you camp in Grayson Highlands?
Camping reservations in Jefferson National Forest are available by calling 800-280-2267. The direct phone number is 276-783-5196. New River Campground: The New River flows through Grayson County beginning in Mouth of Wilson, approximately 11 miles from the park, and offers visitors canoeing, fishing and kayaking.
Are Virginia State Parks Free for Military?
State parks are free to Virginia-resident military veterans.
Are there wild horses in the Blue Ridge Mountains?
The “wild ponies” that frolic on beaches and parade along mile-high ridgelines are neither ponies nor wild. Actually, they are feral animals, meaning that they are descendants of domestic animals that have reverted to a wild state.
What is the elevation of Grayson Highlands State Park?
Elevation: 3853 ft. The extensive 4800-acre Grayson Highlands State Park provides any nature enthusiast premier wildlife watching potential within the mountain range home to Virginia’s highest peak, Mount Rogers. The park offers camping, picnicking, overnight horse stables, a visitor center, hiking trails, and access to the Appalachian Trail.
Why visit the Grayson Highlands?
The park has long been a gateway to the state’s highest peak, Mount Rogers, as well as the Appalachian Trail and the Grayson Highlands. As the popularity of outdoor recreation has grown, so has the number of visitors to the highlands.
What is there to do in Grayson State Park?
Grayson Highlands State Park has beautiful alpine views throughout and offers great opportunities for hiking and horseback riding. The park offers access to both the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail.
Is backcountry camping allowed at Grayson Highlands State Park?
Backcountry camping is not allowed within Grayson Highlands State Park, including at Wise Shelter, but camping is allowed in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area (MRNRA).