Grayson Highlands State Park is located in the Appalachian Mountains of southwest Virginia. The park is known for its scenic views, hiking trails, and wild ponies. The park encompasses 4,502 acres and includes the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
The park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking is a common activity in the park, and there are over 50 miles of trails to explore. The Appalachian Trail runs through the park, and hikers can also enjoy views of the surrounding mountains from the many overlooks. In addition to hiking, the park also offers horseback riding, camping, picnicking, fishing, and ranger-led programs.
Wild Ponies
One of the most popular attractions in the park are the wild ponies. These ponies are a sight to behold and are very friendly. Many people come to the park just to see these ponies and have their picture taken with them.
The ponies are actually a mix of two different breeds, the Appalachian Mountain Horse and the Shetland Pony. They were brought to the park in 1974 and have been living there ever since. The ponies are very used to people and are not afraid to approach them. They are often seen grazing near the visitor center or on the trails.
History
It was formally established in 1965. Prior to becoming a state park, the land was used for farming and timber production. In the early 1900s, the land was purchased by the Virginia Conservation Commission for the purpose of creating a state park.
