Roan Mountain 2024

Often times when I scour the internet for places to take photos at, I am met with images that are either uninspiring or unrealistic. Roan Mountain was not one of those places

Our adventure began with a hike up Round Bald from the parking lot. Thankfully we got there around 2 pm so there was plenty of parking. As we started up the trail, we were amazed at the vast landscape that surrounded us. The rolling blue mountains as far as the eye could see made for spectacular backdrops.

As we got to the top of Round Bald, we were already amazed, but when we saw the other two bands that were in front of us, our excitement only grew. The second bald, Jane Bald, is the one that I have seen the most photos of. Specifically, the view from Jane Bald of Round Bald. Since we went in late summer, most of the grass was dry/dead, however I made note to come back in the Spring for the Rhododendrons.

Of all the bands, Grassy Ridge Bald was the most strenuous. Our Trails app showed a very steep incline ahead, and it was indeed very steep. But after we summited to the top, all that hard work paid off with an amazing 360º view. We easily found a place to set up camp and excitedly waited for sunset.


However, a vey dense cloud made its way on top of the bald, and we couldn’t see but a few feet in front of us. Needless to say, we were disappointed, but were optimistic for more favorable conditions for sunrise.

As we woke up, our hopes had paid off and we were able to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery in prime golden hour light. It was truly a breathtaking experience. And as the early light went on, it only started looking better.

As we headed back down the mountain, we reminisced about how beautiful this trip was. Roan Mountain is truly an amazing place, and I would highly recommend every photographer to go and see it for themselves.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Fall 2024