It’s true that winter is often the season for staying indoors, cozying up by the fire, and reflecting on the year ahead—and yet there are so many beautiful outdoor attractions that we’d argue are even more magical during the wintertime. So if you’re up for an exhilarating and wintery adventure, we have just the place in mind. Grayson Highlands, Virginia’s highest-rated state park, promises to be a winter wonderland this time of year. At a high elevation of over 5,000 feet, this park is surrounded by gorgeous mountain vistas. If you can’t make the trip, the following photos will show you just how magical this park can be during the off-season.
Wild mountain ponies, snowy peaks, Fraser firs, and fresh air—these are just a handful of things that make Grayson Highlands State Park such a magical winter destination.
Eifel Kreutz / Getty Images
Grayson Highlands is Virginia’s highest-altitude park, and just next door inside the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area is the tallest peak in the state, Mount Rogers.
Madison Conner / AllTrails
If you plan on hiking within the park, preparation is essential. Weather can change quickly up in the mountains, so it’s necessary to bundle up with plenty of warm, dry layers.
Katie Sellers / AllTrails
You’ll likely encounter the majestic residents of Grayson Highlands: the wild ponies. Seeing these creatures is a hallmark experience of visiting this state park, but you’ll need to respect them.
Tahmoor Chadury / AllTrails Help keep the ponies safe by keeping distance, refraining from feeding them, or getting too close.
There are plenty of trails to enjoy within the park, and one of the most scenic is Wilburn Ridge via the Appalachian Trail.
Andrew Rollwitz / AllTrails
You might even get to see a little snowfall while you’re up there!
Carlos S / AllTrails If snow is in the forecast, be sure to check the official Grayson Highlands State Park page for more information.
So whether you’re planning a hike, picnic, or just a quick stroll in the great outdoors, you’ll be glad you chose Grayson Highlands as your winter outdoor destination.
Shaun Aigner-Lee / Getty Images
Visit the park’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
Eifel Kreutz / Getty Images
Madison Conner / AllTrails
Katie Sellers / AllTrails
Tahmoor Chadury / AllTrails
Help keep the ponies safe by keeping distance, refraining from feeding them, or getting too close.
Andrew Rollwitz / AllTrails
Carlos S / AllTrails
If snow is in the forecast, be sure to check the official Grayson Highlands State Park page for more information.
Shaun Aigner-Lee / Getty Images
Have you ever visited Grayson Highlands State Park in Virginia during the wintertime? What did you think? We’d love to hear all about your experiences in the comments below! For helpful information about planning your visit, be sure to check out the Virginia State Parks official website.
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Address: Grayson Highland Ln, MOUTH WILSON, VA 24363, USA
