Rhododendron Hike/AT, Crest and Big Wilson Creek Trails loop

Type of Outing: Hike
When: WED 6/10/2026 9:30 AM
Signup Deadline: 6/9/2026 5:00 pm
Leader: Clare Strayhorn
Distance: 11 miles
Difficulty: R-33, Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1600 ft.
Description: It’s rhododendron season at Grayson highlands. Last year we hiked this trail loop on June 11 and caught the pink Catawba rhododendrons at their peak! It was a glorious spectacle seeing the rhododendrons, in all their splendor, blooming on the slopes of Pine Mountain when hiking down the Crest trail. The hike 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, rhododendrons, 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 at the Scales. 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]
Required Gear: Poles would be a good idea.
Max Participants: 15