Mt Rogers Naturalist Rally
Location & Directions
The Konnarock Community Center (Address: 6535 Whitetop Rd, Troutdale, VA 24378)
From I-81, take exit 35 (Chilhowie), go south on Rt 762, passing Hardee’s. Follow this for 3.6 miles to the flashing light at intersection. Keeping straight the road becomes Rt 600, crosses Iron Mountain (disregard “Old 600″ signs)and in 7.6 miles turn left at intersection, staying on Rt 600. From here go 2/10 miles and the Konnarock community center is on the left.
From the east along Hwy 58/16: Head northwest to Troutdale on Hwy 16. In Troutdale take left at the old country store onto Rt 603/Fairwood Rd. Go 10.4 miles until you reach a stop sign. Turn left onto Whitetop rd. In less than a 1/4mile take your next left continuing on Whitetop Rd. After .3 miles the Community Center will be on your left.
Grindstone Campground (GPS: 36.68694, -81.54111) From I-81, take exit 35 (Chilhowie), go south on Rt 762, passing Hardee’s. Follow this for 3.6 miles to the flashing light at intersection. Keeping straight the road becomes Rt 600, crosses Iron Mountain (disregard “Old 600″ signs)and in 7.4 miles turn left on to Laurel Valley Road. Travel 4.3 miles and the campground entrance will be on your right.
CAMPING / LODGING
Join us at Grindstone Campground! Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally guides and volunteers will be camping in the Groundhog Den Loop on Friday and Saturday night. Come pitch a tent but remember to reserve your spot online.
Although the focus is on Grindstone Campground, there are a number of other options available in the area including overnight lodging through Airbnb. Beartree Campground is also located within 10 miles of Konnarock. B&B's, Inns and Motels are available in Damascus, Abingdon, Chilhowie, Glade Spring, Marion, all with places to eat. Try www.virginiablueridge.org for information.
CONSIDER SUPPORTING THE RALLY
The Mount Rogers Naturalist Rally is a grand tradition that dates back to 1974. Over the years it has gone through many changes but the root goal has stayed the same: to connect our community to one of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. If you would like to see this tradition continue for the next generation please consider making a donation to support the Rally.
