The Adventure Collective 2019 Asheville Guide Sample | Page 27

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Roan Mountain Hiking Trails (A.T.)
The Appalachian Trail, the nation’s longest marked footpath at 2,178 miles, has
numerous access points near Asheville. We like the rugged Roan Mountain sec-
tion near Bakersville. From the Carver’s Gap (5,500 feet) parking area we rec-
ommend heading northeast towards the Grassy Ridge section which includes the
longest stretch of grassy bald in the Appalachian Mountains. Don’t forget to take
your camera! Some of the best landscapes for pictures there is on the Appala-
chian Trail can be found along this part of the trail.
This section is great for an overnighter because it includes the AT’s highest shel-
ter, Roan High Knob Shelter at 6,275 feet, which is approx. 1.5 miles from the
parking area.
Directions from Asheville: Take I-26 W to exit 9/US-19 N. Stay on US-19, which
becomes US-19 E in Yancey County, to Spruce Pine. Take left on NC 226 N. Head
11 miles through downtown Bakersville then becomes NC 261 N. Head 12 miles
to NC/TN state line to Carver’s Gap parking area.