Howdy,

Does anyone out there know of any possible loops in the Roan Highlands area? I'd like to do about 25 miles (give or take) in the area but was hoping to avoid the out and back. It'll be a solo trip so shuffling cars isn't an option either. Tried to do a bit of research but didn't have any luck finding any loop hikes. Any side trails that could connect with the AT to make this happen? Any info. is appreciated.

Thanks!

Count Bumpula for the evening crew.

Done a little more research - doesn't seem to be much in the way of loop options. Still, if you know of one I'd love to hear it.

Moving forward though, anyone care to chime in on the best section of the AT in the Roan Highlands/Roan Mountain area? I've read that Carver's Gap to 19E is a good section. Any recommendations?

Just looking to check out this area and I've only got about 2 days/2 nights for my trip. Probably no more than 30 miles or so.

Thanks!

Edited by powell1nj on 07/30/2012 18:35:02 MDT.

No loop options. Yes Carver Gap to 19E, the section over Roan itself is in the trees with not real views. The real action and balds is from Carver Gap and north. Get Bob Peoples at Kincora Hostel to shuttle you, he is very reasonable, probably like $20.

Thanks Alex. Forgot about Kincora. I may call Bob, although the 40 miles from Carvers to Dennis Cove might be a bit more than I want to do on this trip. Starting to think that if the section from Carvers to 19E is as nice as everyone says, maybe it won't be such a bad stretch to out and back.

Mountain Harbor Hostel also offers a shuttle but it's pricey for a solo hiker. If anyone is heading out that way on Aug. 12 - 14 or would like to, let me know. 1 or 2 more folks makes the shuttle much more affordable. Maybe Iron Mountain Gap (NC-226) to 19E?

Mighty fine.

It is a beautiful section. I highly recommend it. I would do the whole section and pay for the shuttle.
Alternatively, from Carver's Gap, you can walk the AT and hit an intersection with the Overmountain Trail. I think this connects with Roan Mountain State Park or the town of Roan Mountain. There may be a connecting trail from there back up to Carver's Gap (or at lease a much shorter hitch). See this rough map: http://www.nps.gov/pwr/customcf/apps/maps/showmap.cfm?alphacode=ovvi&parkname=Overmountain%20Victory

Edited by alexdrewreed on 07/31/2012 08:37:10 MDT.

Have Bob meet you at 19E and take you around to Carvers and walk back to your car. Or the out and back would not be bad as you get the great views going both ways.

Carvers to 19E can be walked in a day, its only like 15 miles.

Get Mountain Harbor to shuttle you farther south somewhere and walk back to 19E, leaving you vehicle at Mountain Harbor. This is 250 yds west of where the trail crosses 19E.

Hughes gap, Iron mountain gap, Indian Grave gap, etc are possible starting places.

Wish I would have seen this sooner. I'm getting out for a few days next week...just not sure when and where yet.