Round Bald via the Appalachian Trail (Carver’s Gap lot) is one of our all time favorite, easy hikes. This quick hike is only 1.5 miles out and back. The grade isn’t very steep and the trail is a well-worn path. The trail opens to beautiful, grassy fields, with rolling mountains in the background.
The trail is located at the top of Roan Mountain on the NC/TN border. Roan Mountain State Park is located at the base of the mountain. Many people flock to the area in late June to see the Rhododendron Gardens in full bloom.
My family and I love the views from this trail. My husband and I were married near Round Bald. I had maternity pictures taken here, and we even named our son Roan, because it has such special meaning to us.
Upon arrival at the Carver’s Gap lot, you will cross the road and go up the stairs.
This sign will be located at the trail head.
You will continue to follow the trail through a wooded area until the trees thin out and the mountains come into view. This wooded area can make for gorgeous photos, especially with the correct lighting conditions. My friend, Kayla, took the dreamiest photos for me during my maternity session there. It gave a really “Twilight” vibe.
Once the trees clear, the view opens up to gorgeous, grassy hills. In the background you can see layer upon layer of beautiful, rolling, blue mountains. I do urge you to check the weather prior to making the trip. Conditions can change quickly, and are often much different at Carver’s Gap than in the town below. During a photo shoot 5 years ago, it was a complete white out and we had to drive back down the mountain in order to take photos. During our maternity session, the fog moved in so quickly. It made for pretty pictures, but it’s hard to imagine this photo is taken in the same location as one of our wedding photos shown above. If you are going for the mountain views, I advise you to check the weather before making the drive.
At the top, you will find Round Bald. You can walk around and explore the area at the top or you can start making your way back down. You can also choose a more moderately strenuous route and hike on to Jane Bald and Grassy Ridge Bald.
We hiked up with our littlest babies the last time we made this trip. We only hiked to Round Bald. They were ages 11 months and 2 years old. My daughter, (who just turned 2 that day), ran around exploring the ridge. She then walked the entire way down the trail! I was so proud of her! As you can see from the photo, she was also pretty proud of herself. If you are looking for a kid-friendly hike, this is definitely a top pick of mine.
I hope you enjoyed this short and sweet article! I hope it gives you the desire to get out and stretch your legs, even if you have littles at home! If you are new to hiking, check out my blog on Essentials for a Day Hike!
Also, check back next week for my post on Hiking Essentials with Kids.
