About The Roan Highlands are considered by many to be one of the most scenic sections of the Appalachian Trail. This trip features miles of open grassy balds, sweeping 360° mountain views, and high-elevation ridgeline hiking unlike anywhere else in the Southeast. We'll spend two days hiking some of the most iconic peaks in the Roan Highlands, camping along the Appalachian Trail, and enjoying what should be an outstanding late-summer weekend in the mountains. Although this is an out-and-back hike, the ridgeline is the destination. Hiking it in both directions lets us experience the balds under different lighting conditions and spend more time enjoying the scenery instead of simply passing through it.

Technical Details Views: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Challenge: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ Trip Length: 2 Days / 1 Night Distance: Approximately 24 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 4,500–4,800 feet Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous This trip is intended for experienced backpackers who are comfortable hiking 12 miles per day while carrying a full backpack. Participants should be capable of navigating independently if separated from the group.

Highlights

• Round Bald
• Jane Bald
• Grassy Ridge Bald (optional side trail)
• Little Hump Mountain
• Hump Mountain
• Nearly continuous mountain views along one of the most scenic sections of the Appalachian Trail
• High-elevation camping
• Excellent opportunities for sunrise, sunset, and photography

Meeting Location & Parking Meeting Location: Carver’s Gap Trailhead Parking Area GPS Coordinates: 36.10654568606949, -82.11104005098103 Please arrive by 8:00 AM or earlier so we can organize the group and begin hiking at approximately 8:30 AM. Parking at Carver’s Gap often fills quickly, especially on a holiday weekend. Arriving early is strongly recommended. Anyone driving a longer distance may want to arrive Friday evening and camp or stay somewhere nearby so they can reach the trailhead early Saturday morning without feeling rushed.

Itinerary Day 1 - Saturday Meet at Carver's Gap and begin hiking northbound on the Appalachian Trail. We'll cross Round Bald, Jane Bald, and take the short side trail to Grassy Ridge Bald before continuing toward Yellow Mountain Gap. Depending on group pace, weather, water availability, and campsite conditions, we'll continue to the Bradley Gap or Doll Flats (another 3 miles) and set up camp. Estimated Mileage: 9–12 miles

Day 2 - Sunday After breakfast and if we camp at Bradley Gap, we'll continue to Little Hump Mountain and Hump Mountain before turning around and retracing our route back to Carver's Gap. Returning across the Roan balds offers an entirely different perspective and gives us another opportunity to enjoy some of the finest mountain scenery in the southern Appalachians. Estimated Mileage: 10–15 miles

Water Water is generally available near Yellow Mountain Gap and Bradley Gap, but sources can vary depending on recent rainfall. Plan on carrying 2–3 liters while hiking across the balds and enough water to comfortably travel between reliable sources.

Important Notes

• Food must be stored properly to prevent attracting bears and other wildlife.
• There are no shelters planned for this trip; bring your normal backpacking shelter.
• Weather at elevations above 6,000 feet can change quickly. Be prepared for wind, rain, and cooler temperatures.
• We will hike together as a group, but every participant should be able to navigate independently and be self-sufficient.
• This trip is intended for experienced backpackers with above-average fitness.
• Well-behaved dogs are welcome but should be under control at all times.
• This trip will generally proceed in light rain.

More details and any last-minute updates will be shared closer to the trip. If you have questions about gear, fitness, or expectations, feel free to ask in the comments. Looking forward to another great weekend on the trail!