The abundance of beauty and versatile terrain that make up the state of Virginia is unparalleled. From mountains to caverns, beaches, and even “temperate rainforests,” Virginia’s vast variation allows you multiple experiences in a convenient range, omitting the need to drive far and wide to get your fill of scenic changes and diversity. The myriad State Parks to be enjoyed throughout Virginia are always great places to start with, as each location boasts an array of unique offerings. Among the most well-versed areas to explore is Grayson Highlands State Park.
Established in 1965, Grayson Highlands State Park, in Grayson County, comprises more than 4,500 acres of pristine land. It’s located within the limits of the Jefferson National Forest and spans a total elevation of almost 1,400 feet. Among the unique natural wonders found here are clear cascading waterfalls, a profuse abundance of plants and vegetation, and various creatures of all kinds (including herds of wild ponies). It also boasts hiking access to Virginia’s highest mountain peak, Mount Rogers, at 5,729 feet.
Another bucolic callout is its temperate rainforest terrain. Unlike the usual tropical rainforests many often think about, the temperate rainforests of the Appalachians sport a much cooler climate. Yet, they still share the commonalities of constant rain, mist, and perpetual moisture.
The park provides visitors with many onsite amenities, creating an opportunity for both year-round and seasonal endeavors and outdoor activities to be enjoyed here. They even offer overnight camping via an impressive site equipped with electricity and water hookups. Overnight stables are on location as well to accommodate any horses you may bring along for a trail ride. There’s also plenty of parking for trailers in addition.
Hiking is among the most popular pursuits here, with several available paths. Each option ranges by mileage, difficulty level, duration, and sights to see along the specified route. Featured trails in Grayson Highlands are the Rhododendron, Cabin Creek, Big Pinnacle, Twin Pinnacles, Listening Rock, Wilson Creek, Stampers Branch, Rock House Ridge, Appalachian, Horse Trail (east and north), Seed Orchard, Old Upchurch Road, Service Road, Appalachian Spur, and Wilburn Branch.
Mountain biking is another awesome opportunity to enjoy at Grayson Highlands, with 10 miles of paths designated for cyclists. There are also 10 or more miles open to snow skiing during the colder months.
Bouldering is another activity that attracts visitors to the park. You’ll find four boulder fields and more than 700 named climbing routes!
As alluded to earlier, trail rides on horseback are big business here, which is one of the reasons campers often bring their horses along. It’s not like those wild ponies you’re bound to see can be saddled and ridden, after all.
Just the same, getting to see them up close and personal grazing throughout the park is a captivating sight indeed. Such opportunities are even touted as a primary attraction to behold. These resident ponies, however, are not originally native to the land. Because the park comprised extensive farmland prior to its formation, a minimal number of ponies were originally introduced in the early 1970s, set wild to help maintain the grassy Appalachian balds and stave off the spread of thorny brush.
The pony population has since grown. Management and mitigation practices are always in effect to help keep numbers at a reasonable level, including colt auctions by the Wilburn Ridge Pony Association.
Grayson Highlands hosts two crowd-drawing annual events. The first is the Wayne C. Henderson Music Festival and Guitar Competition. Named for local musician and luthier Wayne C. Henderson, the festival features bluegrass music and old-time hits. The second is the Grayson Highlands Fall Festival, which features an array of lively entertainment offerings and traditional old-fashioned hands-on activities.
The greatness of Grayson Highlands State Park is limitless. You just need to make the trek here to experience it yourself.
The park is open to the public daily between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. The office operates Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The Visitor Center is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday through Sunday between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Learn more on the website.