Here in Virginia, we're all about adventures. Typically, the outdoor activities we feature include hiking trails, bike paths, and places to go swimming. Yet today, we're taking our adventures to new heights -- quite literally -- and focusing on one of the most unique climbing destinations in the state. Grayson Highlands State Park is famous for its wild mountain ponies and beautiful trails, but it also happens to be home to one of the largest boulder fields in the state. That translates into some pretty epic climbing! Here's more on climbing at Grayson Highlands State Park.
There's no doubt about it: Grayson Highlands State Park is the crown jewel of southwest Virginia's outdoor attractions.
With its high-elevation mountains and sweeping views, there's no mystery why it's often considered the best state park in Virginia.
What many may not know, however, is that in addition to its impressive hiking, camping, and wildlife-viewing opportunities, there are also ample opportunities to climb!
Bouldering is technically the term for the kind of climbing preferred here. With bouldering, no ropes are used and the climbs are shorter distances.
And while you may not be climbing up as high or as far, the challenge is physically more intense than traditional rock climbing.
Many climbers will have a large padded mat on the ground, also known as a crash pad, for added safety.
The boulder fields at Grayson Highlands State Park are some of the finest in the state, boasting some of the highest-elevation boulders in the Southeast.
It's no wonder why the park is becoming more and more popular as a bouldering destination in Virginia.
After all, could you imagine a more beautiful setting to try out a new activity?
Have you ever been bouldering or climbing at Grayson Highlands State Park? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you!
If you've never tried bouldering but are curious to try it out, you can check out this bouldering gear at REI to ensure you have everything you need for a safe experience. You might also take a look at this book about bouldering at the park: Grayson Highlands Bouldering Guidebook.
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