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Mitchell County North Carolina Hiking Trails
Roan Mountain Garden Trail
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Pets
must be restrained or on a leash at all times while in developed
recreation areas.
Pisgah National Forest
Length: 1.0 miles
Rating: Easy
Back in the late 1800's, an extravagant hotel called the Cloudland
Hotel stood here which had universal appeal for many tourists. The hotel
closed in the 1920's, and very little of its foundation remains. After the
hotel closed, nurserymen arrived and dug up rhododendrons and sold them in
various markets. The rhododendrons continued to grow, getting more
beautiful as the years elapsed.
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One trail here is paved and is handicapped accessible. Two loop trails
are here. The first one is a scenic interpretive trail with 16
interpretive stations. The trail runs through a forest of red spruce and
Fraser fir. The 16th station is an observation deck that provides
gorgeous views for everyone, including the handicapped.
This is the handicapped accessible trail. The second loop is a figure
eight loop trail that is also paved. This trail has many steps. The second
trail runs through a large grassy bald area and a natural garden of purple
rhododendron with several beautiful overlooks. On a clear day, views of
Mt. Mitchell, Grandfather Mountain, Table Rock, and Hump Mountain can be
seen. Restroom facilities are available behind the information booth. No
camping is allowed. The total distance is one mile if all the the loop
trails are hiked.
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Directions:
From Burnsville go east on US 19E to Spruce Pine, turn left (north) on
NC 226 and follow this to Bakersville. Once in Bakersville, continue to
follow this road which changes to NC 261. Follow this road to Carvers Gap
which is on the NC/TN state line. Look for the Roan Mountain sign on your
left and turn left on NC 1348. The Appalachian Trail crosses here. Follow
NC 1348 which changes to gravel and becomes Forest Service Road 130 as you
reach parking lot #2. The trailhead is at the visitor information booth in
the parking lot.
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