Nestled deep in Southwestern Virginia’s gorgeous Appalachian region lies an untouched haven of rugged wonder in Grayson County. From the ancient winding course of the New River to the peaks of the highest mountains in Virginia, Grayson awaits your discovery!
If you’re ready to step back in time for an immersive Appalachian Mountain experience, turn off the Interstate and make your way down the Crooked Road through God’s Country. Grayson County teems with world-class outdoor adventure whether you’re hiking the fabled Appalachian Trail, riding the pristine gravel backroads or sleeping beneath the Milky Way alongside a herd of wild ponies. Fish Virginia’s most abundant trout streams or float the second oldest river in the world in between cookouts over an open fire or catching an old-time mountain bluegrass jam. Whatever your adventure looks like, we’re sure you’ll find it here—and then some.
Enjoy 46 miles of the New River cutting its way through the breathtaking rolling hills of central Grayson County toward the towering mountains in the west.
Whether you’re looking for the thrill of class 3 rapids or a gentle float among the rocky islands above the historic Fries dam, our New River App will guide you. Put in at six strategically situated boat launches where you’ll find detailed maps telling you all you need to know to plan your day out on the river.
When you’ve had your fill of the water it’s time to hit the New River Trail, one of Grayson’s two acclaimed converted rail trails. Cyclists of all skillsets can manage this beautiful track and its famous mountain counterpart, the Virginia Creeper Trail. If it’s a true cycling challenge you’re after, plan your trip around the Grayson Gravel Traverse, a 72-mile mixed terrain gravel route connecting the New River Trail to the Virginia Creeper.
The route follows untouched gravel corridors just south of the foothills of Virginia’s highest peaks, crisscrossing the creeks that carry water from the high mountains down to the New River. This overlooked gem of Virginia presents some of the best gravel cycling in the state, mostly unridden and undiscovered.
Continue your adventure through Grayson County and up towards the stars with a visit to Grayson Highlands State Park tucked between Virginia’s two highest peaks. Hop on the Appalachian Trail for a hike up to the vistas at Wilburn Ridge where you’ll find the wild Highland ponies roaming ready for a photoshoot. Horseback riding, backpacking, mountain biking, bouldering and camping opportunities abound in Virginia’s second-most visited State Park.
We’re certain you’ll discover more than just adventure before it’s time to head back to the daily grind. Plan your visit to Grayson County, VA today and leave feeling Elevated by Nature!
