Virginia Highpoint
Mount Rogers
5,729 ft · Lewis Fork Wilderness · Mount Rogers National Recreation Area
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The standard approach begins at Massie Gap in Grayson Highlands State Park and continues into the Mount Rogers high country. The summit itself lies beyond the state park in federally managed land.
USGS-derived Mount Rogers summit locationStandard route
Massie Gap to Mount Rogers
From Massie Gap, follow the high-country trails to the Appalachian Trail, continue across the Wilburn Ridge area, then use the Mount Rogers summit spur to enter the spruce-fir forest and reach Virginia's highest point.
Distance
Approx. 9 mi round trip
Elevation gain
Approx. 1,100 ft
Route
Out & back
Difficulty
Moderate
Trailhead
Massie Gap parking area
Typical hazards: Rapidly changing mountain weather, fog, snow or ice, rocky footing, and exposed high-country terrain can make the route more difficult than the mileage suggests.
Many of the broad views are along the high country and Wilburn Ridge portion of the route before the final wooded summit approach.
Virginia State Parks: Ranger to Mt. RogersAccess
Grayson Highlands and Massie Gap
Massie Gap in Grayson Highlands State Park is the primary approach used for this guide. The park provides access to the Appalachian Trail and the surrounding Mount Rogers high country.
Day hikers use the Massie Gap area parking. Overnight backpackers must reserve a space in the separate Overnight Backpacker's Lot; that reservation is for parking only, not a campsite.
Know before you go
High-country rules
Keep high-country and wilderness groups to no more than 10 people.
Backcountry camping is not allowed within Grayson Highlands State Park; overnight backpackers must continue outside the park boundary into the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area.
Do not approach, feed, or pet the ponies.
Pets must remain on a leash no longer than six feet.
Stay on designated trails and pack out trash to protect the fragile high-elevation environment.
Conditions
Check before leaving
Weather in the Mount Rogers high country can change quickly and may be much harsher than conditions at lower elevations. Check the current Grayson Highlands information and forecast before departure, particularly for winter or shoulder-season trips.