If you'd like to escape the busier trails and experience hillsides covered with Catawa Rhododendron, tumbling waterfalls, and pools of native brook trout, then this is a hike at Grayson State Park is one you'll love.

Cabin Creek Trail is a hidden jewel at Grayson Highlands State Park. If you're hiking to see mountain scenery, this is not your trail. However, if you'd like to escape the busier trails and experience hillsides covered with Catawa Rhododendron, tumbling waterfalls, and pools of native brook trout, then this is a hike you'll love. Please note that fishing this creek within the park boundaries is prohibited, but taking an exhilarating dip is allowed.

The park has designated the trail easy. Moderate may be more accurate. Rock scrambling is necessary in several locations but worth every effort. Also, the park has blazed this trail with orange signposts but the tree blazes are yellow! The route is a comfortable 1.9-mile loop. Segments of this foot trail lend itself to cross-country skiing. Elevation ranges from 4,400 to 4,600 feet.

Directions: From Damascus or Independence, VA, The park is located on U.S. 58 midway between Damascus and Independence, Virginia. From I-81 take Exit 45 in Marion, head south on RT. 16 to U.S. 58 which runs through Volney, Virginia. Turn right onto U.S. 58 and travel approximately eight miles to the park entrance. From I-77, take Exit 14 to U.S. 58 West and travel approximately 40 miles to Volney, Virginia. Continue west on U.S. 58 for approximately 8 miles to the park entrance. Travel the main park road to the Massie Gap parking area. Trailhead is located at the far end of the parking area.

Elevation: 4,640 feet

Elevation Gain: 320 feet

Difficulty: Easy

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