Appalachian NST, Carvers Gap, TN-NC
TN (Carter County)
The Carvers Gap area is a favorite hiking destination for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Hiking trail North there are several open balds which offer stunning views. This area is very busy with hikers on any given weekend. Hiking trail South is the 3rd tallest mountain on the AT. Roan High Knob is at 6285 feet but offers no views. The highest shelter on the AT is here but is temporarily closed until it can be repaired (Hurricane Helene has halted the repair effort, possibly until 2026). Cloudland is a mile further South, where the Cloudland Hotel once stood. There are nice views here. Evidently, this area has recently been designated a National Recreation Area as the new sign suggests.
Snow was in the forecast, even for the lower elevations, on this 1st day of Winter. So I was certain it would be interesting at Carvers Gap (5512’). The weather is always challenging here, especially if it is windy and it is often windy. I’ve been up here in worse conditions, even during Trail Maintenance events. When dayhiking in these conditions, I’ll likely opt to head to the shelter and then Cloudland. Although still cold, the trees offer a break from the wind.
Appalachian NST, Carvers Gap, TN-NC
TN (Carter County)
The Carvers Gap area is a favorite hiking destination for the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Hiking trail North there are several open balds which offer stunning views. This area is very busy with hikers on any given weekend. Hiking trail South is the 3rd tallest mountain on the AT. Roan High Knob is at 6285 feet but offers no views. The highest shelter on the AT is here but is temporarily closed until it can be repaired (Hurricane Helene has halted the repair effort, possibly until 2026). Cloudland is a mile further South, where the Cloudland Hotel once stood. There are nice views here. Evidently, this area has recently been designated a National Recreation Area as the new sign suggests.
Snow was in the forecast, even for the lower elevations, on this 1st day of Winter. So I was certain it would be interesting at Carvers Gap (5512’). The weather is always challenging here, especially if it is windy and it is often windy. I’ve been up here in worse conditions, even during Trail Maintenance events. When dayhiking in these conditions, I’ll likely opt to head to the shelter and then Cloudland. Although still cold, the trees offer a break from the wind.