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Women’s-Only Roan Mountain 2 Night Backpacking Trip

Guided ·

5.0

Elizabethton

Locally Owned

Small Group Sizes

Beginner Friendly

Free Cancellation

Instant Book

Duration: 3 days

Pricing

Person

$650

Description

Roan Mountain Women’s Backpacking Retreat – 2 Nights on the Appalachian Trail!

There’s something about the Roan Highlands that stays with you long after you leave. This stretch of the Appalachian Trail is known for its sweeping, high-elevation balds, open ridgelines, and views that seem to go on forever. Over the course of two nights, you’ll hike through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Southeast—rolling grassy summits, wildflowers in season, and quiet moments where the only sound is the wind moving across the mountains.

This women’s-only backpacking trip is designed to be both challenging and supportive. You’ll cover meaningful miles—up to around 8 miles (13 km) on some days—but the pace is set by the group, and your guide is there to make sure everyone feels strong, capable, and included the entire way. Whether you’re coming with a friend or showing up solo, you’ll quickly find yourself part of a group that encourages each other through the climbs, celebrates the views, and shares in the experience.

Everything is taken care of so you can focus on being out there. All gear, meals, and guidance are provided, along with thoughtful pre-trip support so you arrive feeling prepared and confident. What really makes this trip special, though, is the connection—between the landscape, the trail, and the group. Somewhere between the ridgelines and camp, conversations get real, laughter comes easy, and the outside world starts to feel far away.

Itinerary

Day 1: Meet your guide near Carver's Gap (exact location provided after booking). Set out through lush forests and up onto the open balds, following the Appalachian Trail with sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. After setting up camp, settle in for a shared evening meal and the kind of sunset that makes the whole hike worthwhile.
Day 2: Slow morning at camp, then continue along rolling ridgelines and open balds. Plenty of breaks to take photos, catch your breath, and actually enjoy where you are. Evening brings a fireside meal, good conversation, and a night under more stars than you're used to seeing.
Day 3: Final slow morning, then pack up and hike back to the trailhead. You'll leave feeling accomplished, grounded, and — if you're like most of our guests — already planning your next one.

Duration of Adventure

3 Days & 2 Nights

Location / Where to Meet

Check in/ Departure Address: Carver’s Gap (Exact location provided after booking!)
You will meet at 10:00 am on the first day at the trailhead.

Ages & Requirements

The minimum age to participate is 18+ years old. This tour is for adults only!
This is a woman-only backpacking trip.
The outfitter rates this trip as intermediate!
Guests must be able to hike approximately 8 miles (12.8 km) per day.
There is a maximum of 6 hikers allowed on the tour and a minimum of 3. If the minimum number of hikers is not met, your guide will reach out to you within 2 weeks of your trip.

What’s Included

Wilderness First Responder Certified Expert Guide
High-Quality Backpacking Gear (Backpacks, Tents, Sleeping Pads)
Shared Gear (Stoves, Water Filters, First Aid Kit, Bathroom Trowels)
All Meals (Dehydrated Meals, Snacks, and Beverages)
Two-Person Tent (Single Occupancy Available at No Extra Cost)
We are able to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions, however please keep in mind we are somewhat limited due to the nature of the activity. Dehydrated food is often used for the majority of meals, as it is lightweight and easy to carry (versus fresh food that is both heavy and perishable). When booking your trip, please note any allergies or dietary restrictions so we are aware and can adjust our food selection accordingly.

Not Included

Gratuity - Never expected, but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides!
Transportation to the meeting point / trailhead.
You will be provided a full detailed packing list after booking, some gear you will have to provide for yourself!

What to Bring / Wear

Sleeping Bag – 20 degree bags are recommended in April, May, Sept, Oct, and Nov time frames – the mountains are chillier than you think!
Clothing – One outfit to hike in, one to sleep in (you do not need extra changes of clothes), along with adequate layers for the weather. Avoid cotton if possible – if cotton gets wet it will stay damp and cold.
Sun / Rain Protection - Rimmed hat, sunglasses, neck covering (may attach to hat), and UV deflecting long sleeve shirts can all help to combat the harmful and strong sun rays. A poncho / rain jacket / rain pants is important to consider as weather can change quickly in the mountains!
Sturdy Hiking Shoes - Broken in/Used before with closed toes and grippy tread!
Hiking Socks & Gaiters - Comfortable socks to prevent blisters and small shoe gaiters are helpful to keep rocks and sand from getting into the shoe and causing blisters or cuts!
Head Lamp
Mess Kit
Water Bottles/Water Bladder – 2 Liters recommended, one in a heat safe container (ex – Nalgene) to use as a hot water bottle on cold nights. Once your trip is booked your guide will reach out with route specific water guidelines.
Personal Medications – If you need certain medications along the hike, please be sure to have them with you.
Required Paperwork & ID Cards- Signed medical form if required, waivers, license, etc.

What Not to Bring

Don't bring many of the typical luxuries of everyday life that are not needed in the backcountry! Feel free to leave your makeup, deodorant, and other products at home. A toothbrush/toothpaste is the only recommended toiletry for your trip. Extra electronics and other forms of entertainment are not needed – take this time to disconnect and enjoy nature – screen free!

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Happy Hiking Company

FAQs

Who is this trip for?

This trip is perfect for those seeking a challenging, but very rewarding backpacking experience. With only one night in the backcountry, this trip is perfect for those new to backpacking and seasoned pro’s alike.

Don’t have a travel buddy? No problem! Many people choose to come on trips with us solo, or with a friend! If you’re travelling by yourself you’ll have a 2 person tent to yourself, or you can choose to bunk with another traveler to save some weight in your pack. If you’re travelling alone, a guide will reach out to coordinate this together. There is no additional fee for single occupancy if you would rather have the tent to yourself.

What is special about hiking at Roan Mountain / Carvers Gap?

The Roan Mountain Highlands are home to some of the most expansive high-elevation balds in the Appalachian Mountains. Hiking along the AT through this section takes you across Round Bald, Jane Bald, and Grassy Ridge Bald — wide-open, treeless summits with 360-degree views that stretch across multiple states on a clear day. At 5,512 feet (1,680 m), Carvers Gap is one of the highest road gaps on the entire AT. In late May and early June, the hillsides explode with Catawba rhododendron — one of the most celebrated wildflower events in the entire region.

When is the best time to hike at Roan Mountain?

The balds are hikeable from spring through fall, with each season offering something distinct. Late May to early June is prime rhododendron season and one of the most popular times to visit. Summer brings comfortable temperatures at elevation and long daylight hours. Fall delivers dramatic foliage and crisp, clear air with excellent visibility on the balds. Check the booking calendar for available trip dates.

Are there any insects or wildlife to be concerned about while hiking at Roan Mountain?

Ticks are present in the area during spring and summer — check yourself thoroughly at the end of each day. Black bears live throughout the surrounding forests; all food will be stored in bear canisters provided by your guide. The high, exposed balds are prone to rapidly changing weather, including afternoon thunderstorms. Your guide monitors conditions closely and adjusts plans as needed for safety.

Cancellation Policy

To book a trip with Happy Hiking Co., a 20% non-refundable deposit is required. Trips are required to be paid in full within 3 weeks of your scheduled trip date. If needed, you can cancel for a full refund (minus the 20% deposit) prior to 3 weeks of your trip departure date.

More than 3 weeks prior to departure, if you need to transfer to another trip date there is a $30 transfer fee. Within 3 weeks of your departure date, transfers are not available.

Within 3 weeks of your trip date, a 50% refund will be issued. Within 1 week of your trip date, no refund will be offered barring cancellation of the trip by Happy Hiking Co.

Happy Hiking Co. runs tours rain or shine! Should extreme weather circumstances arise, your guide will reach out to coordinate the details and changes to your itinerary.