The next day, I woke up bright and early, ready to take on Grandfather Mountain. This came highly recommended to me by 2 fellow hikers on yesterday’s trail. After a couple hours of driving, I arrived.
Not only was the road up to the mountain covered with snow and ice, but the entrance was also gated off. With time wasted and things low prospects, I consulted my journal once again and determined that in order to make the most of the day, I should go back to the Roan Highlands today.
Returning to the Roan Highlands
I returned to Carver’s Gap with the intention of going farther than I did the previous day. Today, there was an extra 2-3 inches of snow everywhere. The views were even more glorious than the day before.
I did not know that Grassy Ridge Bald is the final part of the hike, so when I got there, a disappointed me had to double back, just as I did the previous day. This part of the trail had over a foot of snow, and it was a very tiring trek. The views made it worth it, again, and I even saw a pack of deer!
Checking out the AT Before heading back
With the hike behind shorter than anticipated, I took a short detour on the AT before heading back to Carver’s Gap. I should have gone straight to the AT and camped out at the Overlook Mountain Shelter, which is what some other folks did the previous day.
Now that I am familiar with the topography on this section of the AT, I have mapped a route in my journal for future use. Carver’s Gap to 19E is a backpacking trip that I must return and complete in the future. I am excited for that day, whenever it comes!
Total climbing: 1943 ft
Total time: 03:27:57
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