View Full Version : Roan --> Damascus...or ?
I'm thinking about a week to 10 day section hike in late-September. Last year i did from Mt. Rogers to Damascus through the Highlands in 6 days. I loved the Highlands ! I was wondering what tips or advice anybody had for Roan Mtn to Damascus, or other suggestions for a week or little more hike (under 100 miles). I'm open to suggestions....
Montana Mac
03-12-2011, 15:22
........ Last year i did from Mt. Rogers to Damascus through the Highlands in 6 days. I loved the Highlands ! .
I have planned that trip this year for 4/18 - 4/23. I also really enjoy the Highlands. Hike through them in 07 & 09.
fredmugs
03-13-2011, 09:40
Honestly I don't think you can go wrong anywhere in that area. I'm sure you have mid Sept picked out for a reason but I will say that the 170 miles I did from the James River to Pearisburg in Oct '08 is my favorite hike by far. I hit everything at peak colors.
I was thinking of starting at the Roan shelter which is a little further south ...assuming i can get someone to shuttle me there..
As far as the time of year goes, i like late September for the temperature as well as the leaves...
If you start at Roan, Mountain Harbour B& B/Hostel on 19E in TN will shuttle.
Maybe have them drop ya at the top of the park road and ten start your hike...
...but will they pick me up in Damascus....
There are several people here on White Blaze that live in Damascus that shuttle. Also Mt Rodgers will shuttle you that far.
wornoutboots
03-13-2011, 21:28
You can get some great shuttlers out of Damascus, ppl on here will pm you if they haven't already. I am also sectioning from Erwin to Damascus & a WB'er pm'd with with a fair price for a shuttle. Just ask : o )
Heck if you are going to Roan, you should make the NOBO climb from at least Hughes Gap. Roan is no picnic of hike but it makes getting to the top and seeing the rolling meadows on top worth it. Take the trail to Grassy Ridge after Carvers Gap and the balds. Complete that day by hiking to Overmountain Shelter, also a nice place to stay.
Tennessee Viking
03-14-2011, 08:18
Currently the road to Cloudland/Rodo Gardens is closed to renovations. But they should open it in June.
I would recommend starting in Erwin or at Indian Grave Gap so you can get Beauty Spot/Unaka in. Uncle Johnny's hostel for shuttles.
Chaco Taco
03-14-2011, 08:20
Camp on Grassy Ridge, unforgetable spot!