Grayson Highlands
More actions
Region
Southwest Virginia
Type
State park and high-country recreation area
Location
Grayson County, near Mouth of Wilson
Known for
Highland scenery, hiking and ponies
In far southwestern Virginia, Grayson Highlands is a place for unhurried mountain walks and wide-open views. The state park sits near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, and its trails lead across high-elevation terrain, through woods and toward the surrounding national forest. Visitors also come hoping to see the park’s free-roaming ponies. Check the official park page before setting out: conditions, facilities and operating details can change. [1]
Plan a trip to Grayson Highlands
Why go
Grayson Highlands is a destination for people who want mountain scenery without making a summit climb the whole purpose of the trip. Park trails range from short walks to longer hikes, with routes to overlooks, waterfalls and wooded areas. For a more ambitious outing, the park provides access to the Appalachian Trail and trails in the adjoining Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. [2]
The landscape is also part of the appeal: open highland balds, rugged rock fields and changing mountain weather give the area a distinctly high-country feel. Bring layers, water and a map, and plan a route suited to your group and the day’s conditions.
Highlights
Start with the state park’s visitor information, trail details, facilities and current planning guidance.
Explore the broader high-country landscape around the park and Virginia’s highest mountain.
Continue into the adjoining national forest recreation area for more high-country trails and outdoor exploring.
History and character
The park was established in 1965 as Mount Rogers State Park and renamed Grayson Highlands in 1975. The name change helped distinguish the state park from Mount Rogers, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The park’s landscape and visitor experience are closely connected to the wider highlands and Appalachian culture of the region. [3]
Ponies were introduced to the park in 1974 to help prevent reforestation of the highland balds. The herd is managed by the Wilburn Ridge Pony Association. They are not tame animals: keep a respectful distance, and do not feed, pet or approach them. [4]
Planning a trip
The park is at 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, Virginia. It is reached by road via U.S. Route 58; check the official directions and park alerts before traveling. The park’s posted hours, visitor-center schedule, facilities and fees may vary, so confirm current details with Virginia State Parks before departure. [5]
Hiking options include park trails of varying lengths as well as connections toward the Appalachian Trail and surrounding national forest routes. Download or bring a current map, plan for changing mountain weather, and choose a route that fits your experience and available daylight. The park’s trail guide provides route information and visitor guidance. [6]
If you hope to see the ponies, treat the encounter as wildlife viewing: remain at a distance and never offer food or try to touch them. The park advises that ponies can bite or kick when threatened, and human food can harm them. [7]
Explore nearby
Independence
Visit the Grayson County seat and plan a stop in the surrounding mountain communities.
Damascus
Explore a Southwest Virginia trail town and a gateway to regional outdoor routes.
Abingdon
Discover a historic town and cultural destination farther west in Southwest Virginia.
Blue Ridge Highlands
Get a broader look at the mountain landscapes and destinations of the region.
Travel books and maps: Browse related Virginia travel books and maps on Amazon
References
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park: Executive Summary, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park Trail Guide, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.
- ↑ Grayson Highlands State Park Backpacker Information, Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Commonwealth of Virginia. Retrieved 2026-10-25.