Roan High Knob Lookout Site
WillhiteWeb.com
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
Lookout History
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.
If you have more information about this site, please contact me.
(#5 highest point on AT)
June 22, 1934
Group on Roan Mountain in 1934
Roan High Knob shelter
1963 USGS map
AT route as it passes by Roan Mountain High Knob
The AT goes up and over Roan High Knob but the trail misses the very summit. A blue blaze trail goes up around 5 minutes to the top. At the summit is the old guard house that is now used as a trail shelter. There is also lots of camping around the summit area. The shelter is planned for renovation in 2025.
Roan High Knob shelter
Somebody camping in the center of the lookout footings
Fire lookout footing
Summit area
Former lookout location
Old homestead fireplace on the AT coming up Roan High Knob from the south.
Roan High Knob shelter from the lookout site
Blue blaze trail up Roan High Knob
Carvers Gap near Roan High Knob
The AT crosses Carvers Gap giving a view of forest covered Roan High Knob
My camping spot just off the AT near the turnoff for the blue blazed trail to Roan High Knob.