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Grayson Highlands Makes the Top 10

By Shellie AnnePosted October 08, 2014

Backpacker Magazine said "Ten trails. Ten unmatched miles each. Get maximum bang for each boot step on hikes that our most-traveled contributors call their all-time favorites."

Grayson highlands State Park magnificent scenery year round - this photo taken October 5, 2014

Click here to read the article from Backpacker Magazine: Perfect 10: North America’s 10 Most Memorable Hikes

The late summer view at Grayson Highlands includes the foothills and wild blueberry bushes

The trail head and exit back to the parking from the Rhododendron Trail

The trail head and exit back to the parking area from the Rhododendron Trail

High altitude can sometimes include tricky weather so be prepared

The high elevation can include tricky weather so be prepared

Backpackers excited to hike the trail from the overnight parking lot

ABOUT

Near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, Virginia's two highest mountains, Grayson Highlands offers scenic views of alpine-like peaks more than 5,000 feet high. Facilities include a visitor center, campgrounds, and hiking trails leading to waterfalls and overlooks. Scenic horse trails and a horse camping area with electric and water hookups, stables and parking for trailers are available. The park provides year-round access to the Appalachian Trail and the Virginia Highlands Horse Trail.

HOURS

8:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

LOCATION

The park is on U.S. 58 midway between Independence and Damascus and is reached from I-81 at Exit 45 in Marion; turn south on Route 16 and travel 33 miles to US 58 in the community of Volney. Turn right onto US 58. Travel eight miles to the park's entrance. Click here for a Google Map.

CONTACT

829 Grayson Highland Ln., Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363 Phone: 276-579-7092; Email here.

Learn more about the all-time favorite magnificent Grayson Highlands State Park here.

PARKS

Grayson Highlands State Park