Roan High Knob Lookout Site

Status: Former Lookout
Elevation: 6,285 feet,
Prominence: 3,485 feet
State: Tennessee/North Carolina
County: (Carter & Mitchell COHP)
AT Access: 0.2 mile detour trail, with 120 foot gain
Mile Marker: 379

In 1933, the Civilian Conservation Corps constructed the Roan Mountain Fire Tower and a fire wardens cabin at the base. The fire tower was not used for an extended time because it proved to be impractical for spotting fires, very often too high above the clouds on cloudy days.
In 1941, the Forest Service purchased 7,000 acres on top of the mountain. In later years, the state of Tennessee purchased another 2,000 acres and the place eventually became Roan Mountain State Park.

In 1980, the cabin was renovated and became the Roan High Knob Shelter for Appalachian Trail hikers.