Things Near Us
From wild ponies and waterfalls to the oldest river in the world — here's what's within reach of the hostel.
Wild Ponies of Grayson Highlands
The most magical sight in the Virginia Highlands — small herds of feral ponies roaming the open balds above 4,500 ft. They were introduced decades ago to graze the highland meadows and have become an icon of the region.
Drive to Massie Gap parking lot in Grayson Highlands State Park (entry fee required) and take a 1–5 mile hike that crosses the Appalachian Trail. We can't guarantee where the ponies will be on any given day — they roam freely — but our guests spot them often.
Staying nearby? We compare the state park's own campground with camping near Grayson Highlands here, and survey every option in the area on camping near Whitetop. Our own tent pads and RV spot are 2.4 miles from the park entrance.
6.4 miles from the hostel. Bring water, layers, and a camera with a real zoom — phone shots don't do them justice.
Grayson Highlands State Park
One of Virginia's most stunning state parks with sweeping highland meadows, rock outcroppings, and panoramic views. Entry fee required.
Feral Ponies
See the featured section above. Drive to Massie Gap parking lot, hike 1–5 miles across the AT, and keep your eyes open.
Cabin Creek Falls
Twin 25-foot cascading waterfalls fed by our own Cabin Creek. Drive to Massie Gap parking lot in Grayson Highlands State Park (entry fee required) for a 1.9 mile moderate round-trip hike.
Bouldering
Natural bouldering routes in Grayson Highlands State Park. Entry fee required. Great for all skill levels with stunning mountain backdrops.
Hiking & the Appalachian Trail
The AT, Mt. Rogers (the highest peak in Virginia), and so much more — all within easy reach. Day hikes, section hikes, or thru-hiker stops.
Sunrise & Sunset at Whitetop
Whitetop Mountain at 5,520 ft is the highest vehicle-accessible point in Virginia. Drive up for unforgettable sunrise and sunset views.
Virginia Creeper Trail
One of the most popular rail-trails in the country. The Damascus–Abingdon half is open; the upper 17 miles from Whitetop to Damascus are closed for rebuilding after Hurricane Helene and reopen March 31, 2027.
Canoeing & Kayaking
The New River — the oldest river in the world — with several drop-off and pickup locations available nearby. A must-do for paddlers.
Trout Fishing
Helton Creek, Laurel Creek, and so many more trout streams in the area. Or cast a line right here on Cabin Creek — 100 yards of creek frontage on the property.
Horseback Riding
Appalachian Horseback Riding offers guided trail rides through the beautiful Virginia Highlands landscape.
Zip-lining
Hungry Mother Adventures offers zip-lining courses through the forest canopy for an adrenaline-packed day out.
Ashe County Cheese Factory
Located in beautiful West Jefferson, North Carolina. Tour the factory, sample cheeses, and stock up for the trail.
Rock Hounding
Explore along Cabin Creek right from our property. A great activity for geology enthusiasts and curious hikers alike.
Getting your bearings
The questions we field most often about what is nearby and how to reach it.
How far is the hostel from Grayson Highlands State Park?
About 2.4 miles to the park, and roughly 6.4 miles to the Massie Gap parking area where most people start walking to find the ponies. It is the closest lodging of its kind to the park.
Where is the nearest Appalachian Trail access?
We are at AT mile 496.5, with the main trailheads — Elk Garden, Massey Gap, Dickey Gap and Bear Tree Gap — all within about ten miles by road. We run shuttles to all of them.
Is the Virginia Creeper Trail open?
Partly. The Damascus to Abingdon half is fully open. The upper 17 miles between Whitetop and Damascus were destroyed by Hurricane Helene, along with 30 of the 31 trestles, and are closed for reconstruction until March 31, 2027.
Where can I see the wild ponies?
Grayson Highlands State Park, usually reached from the Massie Gap parking area. They are free-roaming, so there is no guaranteed spot, but the open balds are where they graze. Do not feed or touch them.
Can I fish nearby?
There is trout water within twenty miles, and Cabin Creek runs through the bottom of the property with rainbow, brown and native brook trout in it. You need a Virginia freshwater fishing licence either way.
Do I need a car to get around?
It helps, but no. We run shuttles to the trailheads, which is how most hikers do a one-way section here. There is no public transport to speak of, so if you arrive without a car, tell us your plan and we will work out the logistics.
Ready to Explore?
Book your stay and use the hostel as your basecamp for all the adventure the Virginia Highlands has to offer.