Shared by Susan St. Amand, as Guest Blogger.

Located near the Mt Rogers National Recreation area in the Jefferson National Forest region, is Virginia's Grayson Highlands State Park comprising of 4,822 acres.

Riding the trails at Grayson Highlands State Park

Among the various recreational activities available to explore in this southwest Virginia area, a unique adventure is to experience it on horseback. As it is very mountainous, with elevations reaching close to 5,000 feet and its rocky terrain, horses should be well-shod in order to traverse the highlands. However, it is a treat to take in the breathtaking views.  In addition, wild ponies and free roaming long-horned cattle graze in the highlands.

The wild ponies have survived in this harsh environment for many decades since their release from duty from the coal mining era. At most, the herd has reached up to 120 wild ponies, but during harsh winters, it has dwindled to about 45 ponies.

Wild ponies are one of the highlight of a visit to Grayson Highlands

The most popular and shortest trail to obtain the greatest possibility of viewing the wild ponies is to take the Rhododendron Trail. When riding while the rhododendron flowers are in bloom, it adds to the experience. Because of the dramatic mountainous landscape, the wild ponies and free ranging longhorn cattle, it feels like you have stepped back into a different time and place. It fosters an urge to take a horseback riding trip to the real West.

The wild ponies are usually curious and do not usually shy away from horse riders or hikers, as the Appalachian Trail crosses thru this area.

The views are spectacular and go on and on

In summary, horseback riding and exploring the Virginia Grayson Highlands State Park and Mt Rogers National Recreation area is definitely a unique treat – a small taste of the Wild West situated on the east coast right here in Virginia.

About the Author

Susan St. Amand is a Board Member of the Shenandoah Trail Riding and Horseman's Association in Shenandoah County, Virginia. She grew up in Northern Maine with horses on a farm and has been a transplant to Virginia for the past 26 years. A retired Youth Education Technician, she enjoys planning horse vacations with friends and has currently completed many rides in Maine, Pennsylvania, New York, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, as well as Virginia, trailering her own horse.