AT South, Crest, VA Highlands, Big Wilson Creek Trails Loop

Type of Outing: Hike
When: SAT 8/2/2025 9:30 AM
Signup Deadline: 8/1/2025 5:00 pm
Leader: Clare Strayhorn
Distance: 10.5 miles
Difficulty: R-33, Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,600 ft.
Description: Let’s return to Grayson Highlands and enjoy a hike in the cooler temperatures that one can expect in the mountains during the summer months. This is a variation on a loop that I scouted fairly recently and starts at Massie Gap, follows the AT or Rhododendron Gap Trail to Rhododendron Gap, continues on Crest Trail to the Scales, picks up the Virginia Highlands until it splits off at Big Wilson Creek, and then continues on the AT south back to the cars. Expect to see expansive views, a few ponies and longhorns grazing here and there, and be prepared for some rocky trail conditions. We’ll stop for a scenic break at the large rock outcrop at Rhododendron Gap and have lunch somewhere along the Crest Trail. Carpooling will be available from Carolina Diner, Greensboro, at 7 am, and from McDonalds, Jonestown (Winston-Salem) at 7:30 am. For those going directly to the park, please plan to meet at the Visitor Center (just past the park entrance) at 9:30 am. There is a charge to get into the park ($10 per car). Approx. 10.5 miles and about 1600 feet elev. [R-33]