Big Problems at Grayson Highlands: A Bouldering Guide

Everything you need to know about bouldering in one of Virginia’s most scenic climbing destinations, from top problems to logistics, gear, and ethics.

Why Bouldering in Grayson Highlands?

Located in southwestern Virginia, Grayson Highlands State Park has emerged as a premier bouldering destination in the Southeast. Its high-elevation setting—over 5,000 feet—provides cool temperatures even in summer, while the park’s unique rhyolite rock formations offer a wide variety of challenges suitable for all skill levels. With stunning panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, wild ponies roaming the meadows, and well-developed climbing areas, Grayson Highlands is an unmissable spot for any bouldering enthusiast.

Best Bouldering Areas

Grayson Highlands boasts several established climbing zones, each with its own character and difficulty range. Whether you prefer technical slab climbs, powerful overhangs, or scenic highballs, there’s something for every style of climber.

Listening Rock Trail (LRT) Loop: One of the most popular areas, featuring hundreds of problems within a short approach from the parking lot.
Boneyard Area: Known for steep, powerful problems that challenge even experienced climbers.
Highlands Area: An excellent summer climbing spot with breathtaking views and high-quality routes.
Contact Station Area: Home to many classics, including the renowned “True Grit” (V5), a must-try problem.

GPS Coordinates for Key Bouldering Areas

Listening Rock Trail: 36.6294° N, 81.5043° W
Boneyard: 36.6281° N, 81.5029° W
Highlands Area: 36.6356° N, 81.4971° W
Contact Station: 36.6312° N, 81.5060° W

Suggested Itineraries

Day Trip: First-Time Climbers

8:00 AM – Arrive at Grayson Highlands Visitor Center and rent a crash pad if needed.
9:00 AM – Warm up on moderate problems at Listening Rock Trail (V1-V3).
11:30 AM – Try classic problems like “Periscope” (V3) and “Highland Highball” (V2).
1:00 PM – Picnic lunch at Massie Gap with views of wild ponies.
2:00 PM – Explore Boneyard Area for more challenging problems (V4-V6).
5:00 PM – Pack up and enjoy a short hike to Wilburn Ridge for sunset.

Weekend Warrior Itinerary

Day 1:
- Arrive early and set up camp at the state park.
- Climb at Contact Station and Listening Rock Trail, focusing on moderate classics.
- Evening: Cookout at the campsite and stargazing.
Day 2:
- Warm up at Highlands Area before tackling harder problems at Boneyard.
- Hike to Mount Rogers summit for breathtaking views.
- Depart in the late afternoon.

Best Time to Climb

Spring & Fall: The best climbing conditions, with crisp air and low humidity.
Summer: Surprisingly comfortable due to the park’s high altitude, making it a great warm-weather destination.
Winter: Climbing is possible but can be challenging due to ice, snow, and frigid temperatures.

Where to Stay

Grayson Highlands State Park offers a range of accommodations:

Tent & RV Camping: Well-equipped campgrounds with picnic tables, fire rings, and bathhouses.
Cabin Rentals: Nearby options available for those looking for a more comfortable stay.
Local Lodging: Small inns and motels can be found in the towns of Damascus and Independence.

Leave No Trace & Climbing Ethics

Brush off chalk: Use a soft-bristled brush to remove chalk from holds after climbing.
Stay on established trails: Avoid creating new paths to prevent soil erosion.
Pack out everything: Leave no trash behind, including food wrappers, tape, and gear.
Respect local wildlife: Do not approach or feed the wild ponies.