Rhododendron Trail to Rock Croppings
Mouth of Wilson, Virginia
Details
Distance
1.77 miles
Elevation Gain
289 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Jess Fischer
With endless views in all directions this short hike is perfect for a little late afternoon exploring in the heart of the Grayson Highlands.
In order to go when the Rhododendron are blooming you'll need to aim for the first three weeks of June.
Starting from the Massies Gap parking area in the Grayson Highlands State Park, follow the trail through the field and towards the base of a large hill. You will see a fence that runs along the base of the hill with a gate right in the center. Go through this gate and follow the winding trail up the hill. Be sure to stop every once and awhile to enjoy the amazing views! Once you get to the top of the hill the Highlands are yours to explore. To your right you will see a massive outcropping of rocks you can climb onto, or, you could take a left and continue to follow the Appalachian Trail up to Massies Gap. During the evenings hundreds of bunnies come out to run around and ponies are often seen grazing along the hillsides. After you're done, throw on a headlamp or use the last remaining bits of light to make your way back down the hillside and to the parking lot.
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Reviews
The views for the top are amazing!!
5.0
I wasn't expecting much but I ended up loving this place. It leads you to a field/valley area that connects with several other trails, including the AT. The wild ponies are super friendly, actually. One of them walked right up to me while I was on the trail. It was pretty rad but also questionable, honestly. I also really love exploring and getting lost on side trails. The rhododendron gives it a maze vibe sometimes. I went during the fall so I can't imagine how beautiful this place is in the spring. I'm definitely going back some day.
5.0
I've done this hike twice as part of multi-day backpacking trips around Mt. Rogers, and several ponies were right beside the trail both times. I'm sure planning it just right to be here when the Rhododendron are blooming would be spectacular, but I've also heard that it gets really crowded during that time for that reason. If you're looking to hike with less crowds, I'd suggest shoulder season, like November or March, when temps will be colder and you may even see some snow!
5.0
I went up on a misty, foggy morning and thoroughly enjoyed the vibe. I had my heart set on seeing the wild ponies so I watched closely as I hiked to ensure that I wouldn't miss them. The hike was very manageable and presented some cool terrain. There are plenty of rocks to play on if you enjoy bouldering as I do. Before long I spotted the ponies and drew near enough to touch them. As a side note, the parks service advises against touching them. They don't want the "wild pony" to become a "tame pony"! To be this close to those majestic creatures in a misty setting seemed like a spiritual moment to me. Expect sudden weather changes. It cleared up and was sunny and when I reached the rocky summit the rains poured down. This is a nice weekend excursion. Take a backpack with tent and bag and you'll have a blast.
5.0
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Nearby
Hike and Fish Cabin Creek Trail
Photograph Wild Horses at Grayson Highlands State Park
Wilburn Ridge and Massie Gap Loop
Twin Pinnacles via Big Pinnacles Trail
Mount Rogers Loop
Backpack the Grayson Highlands
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