Chances are, you’ve heard of — or have perhaps encountered — the magical wild ponies of Chincoteague Island. (In case you haven’t, you can read all about their annual swim here). Yet fewer people realize there are more wild ponies that live up in the mountains of Virginia. These majestic creatures reside along the slope of Mount Rogers, the tallest mountain in Virginia, and you can admire them from a magical forested trail. Head to Mount Rogers National Recreation Area and prepare to be dazzled by the mountain views, gorgeous terrain, and presence of these miniature horses.

Mount Rogers towers over the rest of the state at an elevation of 5,728 feet. This peak boasts the highest elevation in the state and with it, some incredible mountain views. But that's not all...
Mark O./TripAdvisor
Perhaps the most incredible feature of all is the magical wild ponies that roam free here in the Virginia Highlands.
jmpncsu/TripAdvisor
These wild ponies have been enjoying the slopes of Virginia's Highest peak, Mount Rogers, since the 1950s. They were introduced to help prevent vegetation from blocking these panoramic mountain views.
Mark O/TripAdvisor
For a chance to hike to the top of Mount Rogers and experience these wild ponies along the trail, you'll want to head to Grayson Highlands State Park, adjacent to the Mount Rogers Recreation Area.
jmpncsu/TripAdvisor

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Embark along the Rhododendron Trail and, depending on the time of year, you'll encounter these beautiful wild blooms framing the trail.
jmpncsu/TripAdvisor
It won't be long before the trail gives way to a beautiful open meadow, where you're likely to encounter your first view of the grazing wild ponies. Feel free to photograph these creatures, but it's important to refrain from petting or feeding them.
Virginia State Parks/flickr
If you'd like to continue to the top of Mount Rogers, you'll follow the Appalachian Trail to the spur trail that will take you to the top of the peak.
jmpncsu/TripAdvisor
Near the slope, you're bound to see more ponies. It's estimated that they are approximately 100 of them between in the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. Can you imagine a more magical forested hike through the Virginia Highlands?
John Hayes/flickr

Grayson Highlands State Park is located along Grayson Highland Ln., Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363. Have you seen the wild ponies of Mount Rogers? We’d love to hear about your experience! For a nearby adventure that you can experience from your car, be sure to read about how The Highest Road In Virginia Will Lead You On An Unforgettable Journey.

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