Round Bald

Round Bald is a scenic summit located in the Roan Highlands along the Tennessee–North Carolina border. At 5,824 feet, it is one of a series of grassy balds that offer panoramic views in the area which are very popular with both hikers and backpackers.  The summit offers sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, including the Unaka and Blue Ridge ranges and on a clear day you may even see the ski resorts of North Carolina in the distance.  In early summer, the area is renowned for its blooming rhododendrons, particularly in the nearby Rhododendron Gardens, which are among the largest natural rhododendron gardens in the world. 

This short hike to Round Bald starts at Carver’s Gap and climbs ~300′ through an evergreen forest to the bald with outstanding views in all directions.  The trail is mostly within the State of North Carolina, but crosses in to Tennessee briefly as you close in on the Round Bald. The Appalachian Trail continues northbound past the bald with views to the ski resort of Beech Mountain in the distance.  This is a great day hike that is both family and dog friendly – although you should expect a lot of company on weekends.