Roan Highlands Trails
News & Alerts
Burn Ban - The US Forest Service has issued an order prohibiting all burning in the area of Roan Mountain on the Pisgah National Forest’s Appalachian Ranger District as well as in the Cherokee National Forest’s Watauga Ranger District. This restriction is in effect for 5 years, until 2030, on all National Forest system land from Hughes Gap to Doll Flats on the Appalachian Trail. The restriction includes all campfires, portable stoves, and all other forms of outdoor burning
Roan Mountain Day Use Area is closed for vehicle access as of September 30th, 2025, and is scheduled to reopen on May 29, 2026. Carver’s Gap and the Appalachian Trail will remain open through the winter.
Carvers Gap Parking - There is limited parking at Carvers Gap. Please follow all signage for parking limitations, and be aware that there will be enforcement actions in place.
Roan High Knob Shelter is closed for repairs.
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail runs directly through the Roan Highlands, which is often cited as the most scenic stretch of the A.T. in the entire southeast. The section of trail going west from Carver’s Gap is marked by high elevation spruce-fir forests and steep, rocky summits, while the section going east is predominantly grassy balds.
Always remember to leave no trace and recreate responsibly.
Spruce-fir forest found in the Carver’s Gap to Cloudland section of trail (Rob Campbell, USFS)
View from Round Bald as seen from the Round Bald to Carver’s Gap section of trail (Rob Campbell, USFS)