I’m a hiker from Atlanta. For years I’ve heard, “you’ve got to go to Roan Mountain.” So I’m going this fall. I would appreciate any suggestions, advice, or shuttle driver recommendations. My default hike would be approx 40 miles on the AT, probably northbound. Thank you for your thoughts.
Just Walking
I suggest doing from erwin to highway 19e, it’s 53.2 miles. They are many places to shorten it with no extra driving. This stretch is full of balds and my 2nd favorite place on the trail to southern ME. It’s full of hard hiking. So the trail is only 20 -45 minutes from my house to any place you want to go in this 53 mile stretch. You can park your car safely at Mountain harbour Hostel for a few bucks and I can drop you off where ever.
Farsang
Another option you might consider: Carvers Gap to Dennis Cove - @ 37 miles. You could leave your car at Bob People’s place and start on the balds at Hwy 143/Carvers Gap.
Nice of you to offer the shuttle, Farsang.
SloHiker
There is a very interesting guy who is conducting a “Baah-tany” Project just north of Carver’s Gap. He has some 30 desert goats corralled in an effort to halt the encroachment of blackberry bushes which are taking over on the open expanses. He is supported by grants and AT clubs in his effort to bring the vegetation back to its natural state. That said he is very interesting speak with and is staying there with his goats as a protector/provider(he carries water to them) until first frost. Then will be back next summer.
Filly
I’ll be sure and check him out - I’ll be heading south from Carvers Gap to Nolichucky in Mid October.
SloHiker
SloHiker,
Why not drive to Uncle Johnny’s by the Nolichucky River in Erwin. You can leave your car there, get John to shuttle you up to Carvers Gap, and hike back. It’s a great section!
Woody
I hike with a group of 7-9 guys, so we always take a couple of vehicles and “self-shuttle” ourselves on most trips. If I were doing this section solo, I’d likely do just as you suggested - Thanks Woody!
SloHiker
I like the goat story, we could use them instead of weed wackers back here. Loved Roan, heading north along Holsten(sp?) Ridge was a fav of the entire AT. And watch out for the big bulls, they don’t move unless they want to.
fishngame
But from carvers to the noli you miss all the balds, I guess I’m just a softy for’em
farsang
South bound from Carvers Gap is easier and you miss the “Roan Groan” climb by going south. You do have Beauty Spot bald on the way. Good campsites and water on this section. Have a great hike.
papa smurf