Our annual outing showcase in the Highlands of Roan has returned!
We invite you to enjoy a day of free, guided outings in the iconic Roan landscape. Enjoy blooming rhododendron and gorgeous views as we celebrate the conservation of these globally important ecosystems. We offer a variety of outings for different ages, interests, and ability levels — from challenging treks to looking for birds or a simple stroll to a waterfall.
Below are brief descriptions of each hike. Follow the links provided to view the full description and register for the hike. These guided outings are all free, but pre-registration is required, and space may be limited.
What to Bring: Water bottle, sturdy footwear, gear/clothing relevant for your specific outing, and a bag to carry personal items. Weather in the Roan can change quickly, so you may want to bring sunscreen, a rain jacket, and multiple layers. Most hikes will have an opportunity to stop for lunch along the way — please plan to bring your own lunch.
Hike#1: Roll n’ Stroll Rhododendron Gardens
Location: Rhododendron Gardens, State Rd 1348, Bakersville, NC 28705
Start Time: 11:00 am
Leader: Hanni Huerdter, Jess Laggis & LaKyla Hodges
Difficulty: 1, Easy
We anticipate that the Rhododendron Gardens on top of the Roan will be blazing with color this time of year. Participants will stroll approximately 1 mile across gentle terrain with stunning views of the Roan landscape. On this leisurely outing, participants will learn about a number of SAHC’s land protection projects that can be viewed from the gardens. This trail is paved and wheelchair/stroller accessible.
Hike #2: Challenge Hike – Hackline Trail to Little Cove Creek Preserve
Location: Carvers Gap Trailhead, TN-143, Roan Mountain, TN 37687
Start Time: 10:00 am
Leader: Travis Bordley, Ellie Huber
Difficulty: Difficult, 8/10
Come join us on this never before offered Hackline Trail and bushwacking adventure. Starting at Carvers Gap this route will descend the northern flank of Roan Mountain following the Hackline Road Trail (FS53281) and ending at SAHC’s Little Cove Creek Preserve, where we will be hosting our Drop-in Social. This challenge hike will literally end at a party!
Hike #3: Little Cove Creek Falls with Pathways to Parks
Location: Little Cove Creek Preserve, 269 Stockton Rd, Roan Mountain, TN 37687
Start Time: 11:00 am
Leader: Lary & Tanya Marie Pender, Jay Leutze & Michelle Pugliese
Difficulty: Moderate, 5/10
Please join in this special collaboration hike between SAHC and our partners at Pathways to Parks! The vision of Pathways to Parks is to motivate Americans of color to get outdoors and enjoy the benefits of nature in our national, state, and local parks and to help make it easy and accessible for them to do so. This hike will start from the Nilsen Homestead and end at Little Cove Creek Falls. This route will traverse through SAHC protected land and end at the boundary with Cherokee National Forest. Participants will enjoy open fields, luscious forests, and a stunning waterfall.
Hike #4: Hampton Creek Cove Loop
Location: Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area, 760 Hampton Creek Rd, Roan Mountain, TN 37687
Start Time: 10:00am
Leaders: Katie Gray, Park Greer & David Hagler
Difficulty: Difficult, 7/10
Join us on this high-milage adventure through Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area. This hike will utilize three trails, the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, the Shell Hollow Trail, and the Birchfield Creek Trail. This hike will cover lots of variable terrain in both open fields, cool creeks, and deep forested habitats. Participants should expect to hike 5 miles before returning to their car.
Hike #5: Hampton Creek Cove Birding
Location: Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area, 760 Hampton Creek Rd, Roan Mountain, TN 37687
Start Time: 9 am
Leaders: Debi Campbell, Marquette Crockett, Adam Kluge
Dificulty: Moderate, 4/10
Have you ever wanted to go birding or wondered what type of birds live in the Southern Appalachians? Birds are everywhere but they’re particularly abundant in Hampton Creek Cove State Natural Area where neo-tropical migratory songbirds, like the Golden Winged Warbler, come to spend their summer. Join us for this beginning birding walk to learn tips on how to listen for birds, spot their movements, then look for marks to help you identify them. This hike will be led by experienced birders but designed for beginners.
Post Hike Social!!
We will hold a drop-in social at our Little Cove Creek Preserve in the afternoon. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating friends, family and shared hike experiences while learning about SAHC’s recent land protection news. Drinks and light refreshments will be provided, so please RSVP so we have enough for everyone!
We look forward to seeing you and hope you all join us in celebrating the Roan after two years of being apart.
