We travelled an hour and a half to get to this trailhead, on the North Carolina, Tennessee line, which is farther than we usually go, but was well worth the travel time! The sun was out, but it was cooler than I expected, and after last's weeks warm hike, I wasn't as prepared as I should have been for the higher elevation. Thank goodness for kind hiking companions who loaned me some extra layers. I'm still learning how to pack my bag to cover all the weather conditions.
We hiked through beautiful woods, with footbridges and small streams.
This was our first peak through the trees at a long range view.
At the top of the mountain, we stopped at the Cloudland Hotel Site.
(Photo courtesy of Julie Eargle)
It looks like this now, but at one time there was an amazing hotel here. It was built in the late nineteenth century and dismantled in 1927. From the information board I learned this three story resort catered to pleasure seekers as well as people trying to get relief from hay fever. The hotel straddled the Tennessee- North Carolina line and had a stripe painted on the floor through the middle of the dining room, showing where guests could legally drink alcohol and where they couldn't. In Tennessee it was legal, while in North Carolina it was not. Guests relaxed in rockers on the wide porches, enjoyed bowling, croquet or golf on the grounds. They dined on three sumptuous meals a day, all for $2 a day or $10 a week.
Today we dined on trail food and enjoyed the same view.
The Cloudland Trail led us to some amazing views from Roan High Bluff.
(Photo courtesy of Julie Eargle)
Our hiking group today.
(Photo courtesy of Julie Eargle)
We hiked down the AT and stopped by the Roan High Knob Shelter, which is the highest elevation shelter on the entire AT.
Autographs on the shelter.
This trail leads to grassy balds and more amazing views.
(Photo courtesy of Julie Eargle)
View of Little Hump and Big Hump in the distance.
Taking a little rest.
That top of the world feeling! Another great day on the trail.
*Take the time goal #16 - Participate in as many Friday hikes at possible.
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