Appalachian Trail to Mount Rogers Trail

Long hike but no parts are particularly difficult. The hike starts from Massey Gap in Grayson Highlands and you take the Appalachian Trail up through Rhododendron Gap after passing through "Fat Man's Squeeze" on the trail. The trail is fairly rocky but the views - and the ponies - are beautiful. Once past Rhododendron Gap the trail is quite easy over to Thomas Knob Shelter. Past the shelter a spur to Mt. Rogers goes right. Stay on the AT and follow it about 2 miles to the Mt. Rogers trail. In spring this trail and the surrounding woods were dotted with wildflowers. Follow for about another 2 to Lewis Branch Spur. At the bottom of the spur, stay right for the easier route back up to the ridge. This was the toughest part of the hike as the next 4 miles are pretty steadily uphill as you emerge on the ridge onto the Crest Trail and back to the AT. The grade is gentle, it's just that miles 7 through 11 it can tire you out. Once back to Rhododendron Gap you have to go up a little bit more until finally descending back to the parking lot. Lots of wildlife - saw ponies, snakes, rabbits, deer and turkey.