Near Rough Ridge
On the way up
Near Rough Ridge
Outcrop for a viewing and rest midway up.
Near Rough Ridge
Rainy day up in the clouds overlooking the trail to Lin cove
Near Rough Ridge
Elevated terrain with obstacles
Near Rough Ridge
Interesting rock formation next to the boardwalk protecting the delicate ecosystems on top of the ridge.

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Hike Route

Rough Ridge

4.9 (16 Ratings)
Amazing views with short distance.
1.1
mi
Distance
390
ft
Gain
moderate
Difficulty
Fall ColorsFamily FriendlyLess CrowdedViewsWildflowers

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
1.15mi
Distance
390ft
Elevation Gain
390ft
Elevation Loss
65%
Max Grade
4,682ft
High Point
4,292ft
Low Point
Path Type
There and Back
Description
I decided to hike this small portion of the Tanawha Trail with my son. The view is amazing, and it's not very long. If I wasn't so out of shape, I'm sure we could have done this much faster. But why would you want to? Savor the views! There is moderate traffic on a weekday, and the trail is likely busy on the weekend. The beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains never disappoint! The hike starts off with a short set of stairs and leading over a bridge. Then it's up the hill with rock stairs and railroad ties to help with terrain. Next you come to a boardwalk section and a view, but that's not the top! Keep going up the trail until you reach the open area where there are metal posts and wire barrier for safety. If you climb to the top of that huge rock, you look out over Grandfather Mountain. The majority of the trail is under the canopy with the overlooks being exposed.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Michelle Martus