Backpacking the Roan Highlands

Bakersville, North Carolina

Description

The Roan Highlands holds one of the most beautiful sections of the Appalachian Trail. Hosting an abundant of rare wild flowers such as the Gray"s Lily and wildlife including the seasonal wild goats that graze the balds of Roan Mountain accompanied by their two Great Pyrenees.

My girlfriend and I parked at Carvers Gap and hiked the Appalachian Trail over Jane Bald and set up camp off trail on the backside of Grassy Ridge Bald. This location provides massive 360 degree views that stretch as far as the eye can see along with lush green meadows. Hiking trails spread in every direction throughout Roan Mountain assuring a great adventure for the next day! Sunrise peaked right in front of our tent giving a warm mornings greeting. As i set up my camera to capture the light show i noticed 7 White Tailed Deer grazing only feet away! This place will always provide you with the peace and serenity you're searching for.

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Features

Fitness

Rock Climbing

Survival

Chillin

Camping

Photography

Running

Backpacking

Hiking

Dog Friendly

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

Romantic

Scenic

Wildflowers

Wildlife

Backpacking the Roan Highlands Reviews

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hiking from Carver's Gap to Hwy. 19 on the AT

The AT from Carver's Gap to HWY 19 is about 14.5 miles, but with side adventures, it could be roughly 20 miles. The trail crosses the road and continues up about a 400 ft. elevation gain to the first of the balds. This section of the AT is beautiful at near 6000 ft. above sea level and you will get a great view of Roan Mountain. You can take some pictures at Round Bald and up to Jane Bald, givi...

Cloudland Trail

Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Yellow Mountain Barn

Grassy Ridge Bald in the Roan Highlands

Once you've parked at Carver's Gap (5500'), the trailhead is pretty easy to find. Simply cross the highway and jump onto the Appalachian Trail, right on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. Head north on the AT as you head through the Roan Mountain Balds. In the very beginning of the hike, you'll pass through a forest until you reach the Balds, which are wide open, allowing for amazing v...

Round Bald via Carver's Gap

This super easy hike to the campsites near Round Bald is the perfect intro to backpacking for kids or newbies, but serves just as well for the more experienced backpackers who can't squeeze a longer trip in over the weekend. This short (.5 mile) hike in leads to a grassy opening with amazing views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains. There are designated campsites right along Round Bald a...

Backpack to Overmountain Shelter in the Roan Highlands

Starting from the Carver Gap Parking area (do not leave belongings visible in your vehicle) head North on the Appalachian Trail (cross the road and head up the hill past the kiosk). Stay on the Appalachian Trail for 5.5 miles climbing across open balds and treking through forests and wildflower patches. You will come to an intersection where you'll notice a lot of little signs; this is Yellow M...