Roan Mountain State Park encompasses 2,006 acres of southern Appalachian forest at the base of 6,285 foot Roan Mountain. Park elevation ranges from 3,000 feet in the valley to around 3,700 feet on surrounding ridges. Rich hardwood forests allow for a great diversity of life and a wide range of outdoor activities. Park guests have opportunities to hike along creeks and ridges, fish for trout, play tennis, swim, tour a century old farmhouse, join rangers and naturalists for educational programs, and enjoy mountain music concerts. Wildflowers and wildlife inhabit the hollows and ridges of the Roan foothills in abundance. From Dutchman’s-breeches to deer, trillium to turkeys and bee balm to black bears there is always something to discover. Guests who wish to stay overnight have a choice of RV and tent camping or fully equipped AAA cabins. The Appalachian Trail and famous Rhododendron Gardens of Roan Mountain can be accessed at Carver’s Gap, and 8 mile drive from the park. A naturalist is on hand year round to provide programs for visitors to the park and special groups.
There are approximately 12 miles of hiking trails in Roan Mountain State Park and 2.25 miles of mountain bike trails. Difficulty levels range from easy to very strenuous. Hikers can stroll along the Doe River or take a challenging trail up to a ridge with a great view. Trail users should wear appropriate footwear and clothing and carry drinking water.
Other hiking choices abound in this area of the southern Appalachians. Many trails of varying distances and difficulty can be accessed from the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, Elk River Falls, Laurel Fork Falls, and Linville Falls are also nearby. The Appalachian Trail, Rhododendron Gardens Trail, Roan High Bluff Trail and Hack Line Road Trail can be accessed from Carver’s Gap, which is 8 road miles from the park.
Directions: Take I-181 through Johnson City and get off at the Elizabethton/Roan Mountain State Park exit (Hwy. 67). Follow Hwy 67 through Elizabethton, then turn right onto Hwy. 19-E south. In Roan Mountain, turn right on Hwy 143 and follow it into the park. For specific directions, see http://www.mapquest.com