Carver's Gap Trailhead - Search Nearby - 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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Nearby Adventures
Hiking from Carver's Gap to Hwy. 19 on the AT
20.7 Miles Round Trip
Backpack to Overmountain Shelter in the Roan Highlands
5.5 Miles Round Trip - 900 ft gain
Hike to Grassy Ridge Bald in the Roan Highlands
5.3 Miles Round Trip - 700 ft gain
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Overall rating:
Beautiful views, easily accessible.
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.
Great Day Hike Opportunity
An extremely scenic hike along a very well maintained section of the Appalachian Trail. The AT from Carvers Gap up to and to the other side of Round Bald is lined with crushed stone, making the first half of the hike a breeze. For as little effort thats needed, it certainly worth a stop.
Great ZHike
Wonderful little hike.
