Although it was a warm day (for the mountains that is), I decieded that today I was going to hike. Although the Blue Ridge Hiking Club was doing a hike near Cone Mannor, I decided to go off on my own and head off to Roan Mountain. Decided to do a little on the A.T. and then do some side trails. On my way, I did stop at the Gristmill Visitors Center and a few of the overlooks to Carvers Gap. Being somewhat out of shape, I decided not to climb from Carvers Gap to Roah High Knob Shelter, but to drive to the Cloudland Parking Lot. Didn't expect that I would have to pay a $3 entrance fee to the park, but decided to go ahead and pay. Once parked at the Cloudland Parking Lot, I hiked over to the remnants of the Cloudland Hotel then over to the A.T. Hiked North to Roan High Knob Shelter and stopped in. A large group was there, but I did take some photos of the shelter (inside and out) since I have not been here since my 1996 chunk hike. I hiked a bit further North, but turned around when starting to go down hill. Hit a bit of a sprinkle on the hike back to the car, but it didn't last too long, and was rather refreashing. Then took the Cloudland Trail to Roan High Bluff, enjoying two, very nice overlooks, including Roan High Buff. Was surprized that part of this trail was actually paved (although the pavement was not maintained and was falling apart in places). Going back to the car for the 2nd time, I took the side trail to the Rhododendron Gardens Trail. This trail is totally paved, probably due to the amount of people who pass through during the Rhododendron Festival when they are in full bloom back in early June. Got back to the car for the last time. Had a snack at the picknic tables at the parking area before heading home. Nice 6 mile hike in the cool air of the mountains. Got home and had lunch while soaking in the Jaccuzi tub...pure heaven after a hike!
