Life Outside Fall 2017 - 19

Route 623. Pass through Burkes Garden and look for
the A.T. crossing (about 11.9 miles).
Rhododendron Gap, Grayson
Highlands
What to Expect: Perhaps the mecca
of Virginia camping, the 4,822-acre
Grayson Highlands State Park is located near Mount
Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, and makes a sweet
basecamp for hiking adventures. Here, you'll enjoy
views of the 5,000-foot alpine-like peaks, spruce
forests, wilderness and the area's herd of wild ponies.
Facilities include a campground (37 sites with water/
electric, plus 32 standard, and more), bathhouses,
visitors' center, and additional hiking trails leading
to numerous waterfalls and overlooks.
The Hike: While Mount Rogers features the highest
elevation in the state, it offers no view. From the
Massie Gap parking area, follow Rhododendron Gap
Trail to the A.T. (about .9 miles), and head south
toward Rhododendron Gap. Another 2.1 miles will
bring you to the overlook. Extend the adventure
another 1.7 miles and you'll the reach Mount Rogers
connector trail.
Get There: From I-81, take exit 45 into Marion and
turn south onto state Route 16. Follow for 24 miles
before turning right onto U.S. 58 in the community
of Volney. Head west for 8 miles and you'll spot the
park's entrance.

BURKES GARDEN
"God's Thumbprint" is dramatic both on
the ground and from the A.T., far above.

PAT & CHUCK BLACKLEY

10

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Life Outside Fall 2017

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