Overview
The Appalachian Trail through Grayson Highlands is one of the most distinctive and accessible sections of the AT in Virginia, crossing open balds in Jefferson National Forest with panoramic views and the famous wild pony herds that have roamed these highlands for decades. The 7.6-mile out-and-back gains 1,200 feet and is rated moderate.
Grayson Highlands is where the AT feels unlike anywhere else in Virginia: open, treeless balds stretch across the mountaintops with 360-degree views and grazing ponies that complete a pastoral mountain scene. The Wilburn Ridge rock formations add dramatic texture to the landscape.
The Mount Rogers Summit Trail begins from the same area for those wanting to tag Virginia's highest point in combination.
The Route
From Massie Gap in Grayson Highlands State Park, the trail climbs onto the balds via a short connector. The AT section traverses Wilburn Ridge and continues north across the open high-country terrain. The ponies are most reliably encountered on the bald sections in the first 2 miles from Massie Gap.
When to Visit
April through November. The rhododendron bloom in late May is spectacular. Summer is popular and can be crowded on weekends. Fall offers excellent color and cooler temperatures with fewer people.
Practical Details
Grayson Highlands State Park entry fee applies (as of 2026). Vault toilets at Massie Gap. Water is available at the park. No overnight camping at Massie Gap; backcountry camping on the AT requires using designated shelters or dispersed sites 200 feet from the trail. Review Leave No Trace principles.
Getting There
From Marion, Virginia, drive south on US-16 to Volney, then follow Highway 58 west to Grayson Highlands State Park entrance. The park is approximately 8 miles west of Mouth of Wilson. The drive from Marion takes about 45 minutes.
Leave No Trace
This trail receives enough use that following Leave No Trace principles is important for preserving the experience for future visitors. Stay on the marked trail to prevent erosion. Pack out all waste. Avoid camping within 200 feet of water sources or the trail. Use existing fire rings only where campfires are permitted, and check current fire restrictions at checking conditions before you go before any visit. The trail and surrounding terrain remain in good condition because previous visitors have respected these norms.
Safety Considerations
The moderate rating reflects the trail's general character under typical conditions. Weather, seasonal snow, and trail conditions can change the experience significantly. Carry the 10 Essentials on any full-day outing. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time before heading out, particularly on longer or more remote trails. Cell service varies throughout Jefferson National Forest and may be unreliable in canyon bottoms or remote terrain.