Hike to the Highest Point in Virginia at Mount Rogers

The most popular hiking route to the summit is from the south approach located in Grayson Highlands State Park via Massie Gap. Not only is this trail the shortest, but also the most scenic route to the summit. This trail is an 8 mile out and back hike.

On your trek up, you will pass open grassy meadows and even wild ponies! Although these ponies may be considered wild, they have learned to become very comfortable with people who pass through the park. Be warned though, these wild ponies are extremely spoiled and will beg for food.

If you are looking to camp there are many campsites located along the trail on the way towards the summit. Fire's are allowed. 

*This hike is doable in a day trip for those who do not want to camp

The trail head begins in Grayson Highlands State Park. On weekends there is a $3 fee and during the week there is a $2 fee. Park Rangers will direct you down the road to the main parking area. To reach the summit via the popular Massie Gap look for a huge open field. You will follow the signs and start out on the Rhododendron Trail for about half mile towards the Appalachian Trail.  You will then turn left and follow the Appalachian Trail up towards Wilburn Ridge through the Rhododendron Gap.  As you continue you will pass the Thomas Knob Shelter to the short spur trail which leads to the grand finale at Mount Rogers summit!

The top of Mount Rogers features the most northern high-altitude Southern Appalachian spruce-fir forests. The only one of its kind in the state of Virginia with only 5 others in existence! This forest, in particular,  is one of the few remaining that contain a Fraser fir tree; a high altitude evergreen tree normally found above 5500 feet (1700 m)  in elevation.