Hike to Grassy Ridge Bald in the Roan Highlands
Details
Distance
5.3 miles
Elevation Gain
700 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Steve Yocom
While on the trail, enjoy amazing views of endless hills, which are especially amazing during sunrise and sunset. This hike can be done as a day hike or overnight.
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 views. Keep in mind that although the distance and elevation don't pose this as a difficult hike, the rockiness of the terrain make it a little tricky, so a good pair of hiking boots is recommended.
As you keep going on the AT, you'll come to a trail connection at around 2 miles, which will direct you toward the Grassy Ridge Bald. Keep an eye out for the blue blaze - a blaze is a rectangle of paint in a prominent place along a trail. White blazes that are rectangles which are 2 inches wide and 6 inches high symbolize the AT, while blue blazes represent offshoot trails from the AT. Once you reach Grassy Ridge (6200'), find the best place to set up camp.
If heading out on this trek during the winter, be sure to bring extra layers (especially windproof) as this area is really exposed.
Key Geo-Coordinates:
- AT junction with Grassy Ridge Bald Trail: 36.105442, -82.085388
- Grassy Ridge: 36.100037, -82.081215
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Reviews
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Gorgeous Views
What can I say, the Roans overall are a must visit destination. Grassy Ridge may be the crown jewel, though. Take the time and hike the 0.5 mile out from the AT to the top of it, you won't be disappointed.
5.0
Incredible
I've hiked a lot of mountains, but there was something mystical about this whole place. Next time I go back I'm going with a tent and a 3 day weekend.
5.0
Great Hike
Great 5 mile hike on the Roan.
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
