Planning a visit to see the wild ponies of Grayson Highlands? Here’s your complete, local’s-eye guide to spotting the ponies, hiking the highlands, and exploring one of Virginia’s most magical state parks. | Photos by JC Garcia
TL;DR – Wild Ponies at Grayson Highlands
- The ponies are semi-wild and roam freely in the highland balds.
- You *can* get close—but feeding or touching them is discouraged.
- Best pony-spotting trails: Rhododendron Trail, Wilburn Ridge, and AT connectors.
- Spring and fall offer peak viewing (and fewer crowds).
- The ponies were introduced in the 1970s to manage vegetation growth.
What’s the Story Behind the Grayson Highlands Ponies?
The wild ponies of Grayson Highlands are more than a cute Instagram backdrop. They’re part of a decades-long ecological experiment—first introduced in the 1970s to graze back overgrown meadows and help maintain the region’s unique “bald” ecosystems.
Today, they’ve become icons of the park: auburn-coated, snow-dusted, often curious, and sometimes a bit *too* friendly with hikers hoping for selfies or a snack. Despite posted signs asking visitors not to feed them, many can’t resist. As a result, the ponies have grown bold—approaching hikers and campers in search of handouts.
Are they dangerous? Rarely. But like all wild animals, they deserve distance and respect. Feeding them not only disrupts their behavior—it’s also illegal and harmful long-term.
Where to See the Ponies in Grayson Highlands
If you’re coming to Grayson Highlands for the ponies, start with these trails:
- Rhododendron Trail – Short, scenic, and often swarming with ponies
- Wilburn Ridge – Great open views and frequent pony sightings
- Appalachian Trail (AT) Connector – Leads you deeper into pony territory
Morning and late afternoon are ideal times for spotting them. They often graze near trailheads in early daylight, especially after light rain or cooler weather.