Jane Bald via Appalachian Trail
Roan Mountain, Tennessee
Details
Distance
2.64 miles
Elevation Gain
581 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Tommy White
Spend the day hiking the Appalachian Trail across grassy balds with 360˚ views. Arrive at Jane's Bald for a spectacular sunset!
This journey begins at Carvers Gap, on the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. At a beginning elevation of 5512 ft. you will cross the road from the parking area to the trailhead, on the Appalachian Trail, northbound. The trail climbs gently through grasslands and rhododendron before entering a pine forest.
After a short wooded hike, you will break out into the grassy, open expanse known as the Roan Highlands. The trail meanders uphill towards Round Bald, elevation 5826 ft. This is a perfect place to stop and take it all in. Facing east, you will see your destination.
Continue northbound on the AT, hiking down the backside of Round Bald and through Engine Gap. The approach to Jane's Bald is rocky and steep, but not terribly long. You will eventually arrive at a rocky, open area. This is Jane's Bald, best known for it's western views towards Roan Mountain. A perfect place to enjoy sunset! This is a 3 mile round trip, so plan accordingly.
The weather here can shift dramatically creating a gorgeous display of valley fog and unique cloud formations. It's a good idea to pack a rain jacket.
Plan your visit for mid June to witness the awesome display of Rhododendron and Flame Azalea.
Winter is spectacular here. A 4wd vehicle is recommended to make the journey up the mountain. Cross Country Skiing is very popular in select areas. If you plan to hike, be prepared for extreme winter conditions, including high winds, blowing snow and ice.
Enjoy!
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Reviews
Thai hike is a bit longer and has a few difficult spots along the trail. The rocks at the top make it easier to spot where you are going from the bottom, but it typically takes longer than I expect. There are a few steep and rocky spots to climb. The views from the top are always great and there are never too many people on this bald. The flat rocks make it a good spot to stop and grab a breath and a snack!
5.0
This is a great section of the AT to hike. Jane Bald can be reached by parking at Carver’s Gap, but finding parking there can be a bit difficult on busy days. Once on Jane Bald there are not as many people there as Grassy Ridge. It is a bit more of a difficult hike as there are steep sections, but it feels much more secluded as most people don’t hike that far. The view is like no other. From the top all you see are rolling blue ridge mountains in all directions.
5.0
This is a great hike. I suggest going in the spring to see the flowers blooming.
5.0
My wife and I will frequently out and back on the AT at this section. If Jane's is covered, go a little further to Grassy Ridge for a camp spot with privacy. Rarely will you have the trail to yourself but its a fair trade-off for these vistas. Beautiful trail.
4.0
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Nearby
Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Yellow Mountain Barn
Grassy Ridge Bald in the Roan Highlands
Round Bald via Carver's Gap
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Roan Highlands: Carvers Gap to US 19E via Appalachian Trail
Appalachian Trail: Carvers Gap to Roan Mountain
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