See Hike 38: Feathercamp Ridge.
For nearly 6 miles, the AT follows the ridge of Straight Mountain with overlooks onto wild Whitetop Laurel Creek. At either end, it junctions with the Virginia Creeper Trail, a multiuse trail for hikers and mountain bikers. Together, the AT and Creeper Trail make a vigorous 10-mile loop. The Creeper Trail is a model for the Rails-to-Trails effort. Its total length along the former Abingdon Branch of the Virginia-Carolina Railroad measures 34 miles. The stretch used in this loop is noted for its pathway along scenic Whitetop Laurel Creek. Begin and end the loop at a parking area on VA 728, south of US 58 near Beartree Day Use Area. Mount Rogers NRA/JNF, (276) 579-7092. DeLorme: Virginia Atlas & Gazetteer: Page 22, C3.
See Hike 40: Mount Rogers Summit.
See Hike 40: Mount Rogers Summit.
There are 3 miles of the AT in this popular state park. The quickest link to the long trail is via the Highlands Horse Trail from the park ranger station at Massie Gap. From there, the AT goes north to Little Wilson Creek Wilderness and high-country meadows overlooking Scales. In the other direction, the AT ascends along Wilburn Ridge to amazing rock outcrops, deep thickets of rhododendron, and finally the Mount Rogers Spur Trail. Grayson Highlands State Park and Mount Rogers NRA/JNF, (276) 579-7092 or (276) 783-5196, www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/grayson-highlands. DeLorme: Virginia Atlas & Gazetteer: Page 23, C5.