Roan Highlands Backpacking
The Roan Highlands backpacking trip was a remarkable experience that balanced challenge, beauty, and a strong sense of community. From the very beginning, the group’s spirit was clear—Elisa’s flawless parking job, guided by Henry’s calm and precise direction, sparked laughter and set a confident tone for the weekend. Once on the trail, the group began the steady climb through open highlands that stretched between Tennessee and North Carolina. Rolling ridgelines, cool mountain air, and patches of early fall color created an atmosphere that felt both peaceful and invigorating. The hikers paused at Round Bald to take in the panoramic view before continuing along the trail, where conversation came easily and the rhythm of hiking built a quiet camaraderie that carried through the day.
By late afternoon, the group reached the Overmountain Shelter campsite. The wide clearing offered a view of the surrounding mountains glowing in the evening light. As everyone unpacked, the campsite came alive with easy chatter and laughter. Dinner brought everyone together at the picnic table, where burrito bowls and warm food felt especially rewarding after a full day of hiking. Card games and a lively hacky circle followed, adding a touch of lighthearted fun to the night. As the temperature dropped, the stars began to appear—first a few scattered points of light, then the full sweep of the Milky Way stretching across the sky. A few participants decided to cowboy camp, sleeping under the open sky rather than inside tents. They fell asleep to the sounds of the wind moving through the grass and woke to a pink and gold sunrise spilling over the ridgeline.
The hike back the next morning moved quickly, fueled by laughter, shared snacks, and spontaneous sing-alongs to “Unwritten” and “Our Song.” Though the group was tired, the sense of pride and connection was unmistakable. What began as a weekend trip became something much more meaningful: a reminder of how shared effort and simple moments in nature can bring people together. The Roan Highlands trip left everyone with lasting memories of good company, crisp mountain air, and the feeling of belonging that only comes from time spent outdoors.
