4.3
(3)
94
hikers
8
hikes
Hikes around Roan are characterized by parkland paths and lakeside trails. The area's terrain consists of gentle routes through woodlands and around loughs, with minimal elevation change. These hikes are suitable for a wide range of abilities and are primarily located within managed parks.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
19
hikers
2.53km
00:39
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
hikers
4.99km
01:18
40m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
hikers
4.58km
01:14
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
12
hikers
2.45km
00:38
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
4.71km
01:15
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Roan
As you step through the magnificent gate, you will be enveloped by the timelessness of this historic place. The old walls, which shine in the sun, tell stories from times long past and invite you to discover them. The municipality has enriched this treasure trove of history with a library and a museum that attract knowledge seekers and history lovers. In the quiet rooms of the library you can leaf through old writings and be transported back to times gone by, while the museum brings the history of the place and its people to life. After a journey of discovery through history and culture, the Priorat's café beckons with its seductive scent of freshly brewed coffee. Here, in an ambience that wonderfully combines modernity and history, you can take a little time out. Choose from comfortable seating inside or settle on one of the terraces to soak up the rays while munching on delicious pastries. But the Priory has even more to offer. A dreamy little walkway winds from the building down to the river. A path lined with blooming flowers and old trees that acts as an invitation to explore this wonderful terrain in all its splendor.
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A well-designed information board welcomes you directly on the shore and will introduce you to the lake and the surrounding forest like an experienced guide. Using carefully chosen words and images, she traces the fishing history of Brantry Lough - from the first people who fished here with simple nets to the modern anglers who live out their passion for the sport here today. The board takes you into a world rich in biodiversity. You will be amazed at the variety of fish that swim in these waters and the stories each of them has to tell. From the iridescent brown trout that deftly meander through the aquatic plants to the smaller species that reside in the deeper areas of the lake.
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Surrounded by rolling hills and lush green meadows, this lake reflects the sky in its clear waters and holds a special promise for those dedicated to the art of fishing. The waters of Brantry Lough are rich in brown trout. Skillfully moving through the depths of the lake, these dazzling fish are stocked all year round and are the pride of the lough. Not only do they offer a challenge for experienced anglers, but also a fascinating observation for nature lovers. Especially at daybreak or in the quiet hours of the evening, when the water is calm and the air is filled with an expectant silence, you can see boats gently rocking on the lake. These belong to enthusiastic fishermen who have come hoping for the perfect catch. The tranquil atmosphere, broken only by the occasional splash of a fishing hook thrown into the water, makes Brantry Lough a place for relaxation and reflection.
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This handsome looking weir stretches across the river like a silent sentinel, capturing the clear waters of the Blackwater as they glisten in the sun and bathe the surrounding area in a calming sound. Next to the weir there is a green oasis in which time seems to stand still. Lush green areas, peppered with scattered trees, invite you to linger. Picnic benches, strategically placed, offer the ideal place to watch the water play at the weir, let your thoughts wander and unwind. Here, on the banks of the Blackwater, you can escape everyday life for a moment and lose yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the park.
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Brantry Lough is a fantastic fishing lake situated just north of Creevelough in County Tyrone. The waters provide a great supply of brown trout that's stocked all year around bringing keen fishermen and their boats to the shores
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The weir at Dungannon park trickles down like a waterfall into a fresh pool of water surrounded by lush green nature.
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An information board as you arrive at Brantry Lough describes the nature of the lough and wood. The board goes into detail on the fishing history here and the species you may come across.
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Brantry Lough is a fantastic fishing lake situated just north of Creevelough in County Tyrone. The waters provide a great supply of brown trout that's stocked all year around bringing keen fishermen and their boats to the shores.
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The Roan Highlands offer year-round beauty, but the best time depends on what you want to see. For the famous Catawba rhododendron bloom, plan your visit for mid-to-late June. Summer offers lush green balds and pleasant temperatures. Autumn brings spectacular fall foliage, while winter can transform the area into a snowy wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing, though trails will be icy and require proper gear.
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the trails in the Roan Highlands, including the Appalachian Trail sections, as long as they are kept on a leash. Always be sure to clean up after your pet to help preserve the natural beauty of the area. Be aware that the terrain can be rugged and exposed, so ensure your dog is prepared for the hike.
The Roan Highlands are famous for their 360-degree views from the grassy balds. The hike from Carvers Gap over Round Bald and Jane Bald toward Grassy Ridge Bald offers continuous, breathtaking panoramas of the Blue Ridge Mountains. On a clear day, the vistas are some of the most impressive in the entire Appalachian range.
Absolutely. For a relatively easy and incredibly scenic walk, the trail from the Carvers Gap parking area to Round Bald is a great option. It's a gradual climb and less than a mile to the bald, where you'll be rewarded with stunning open views. The Dungannon Park loop is another gentle option, offering a pleasant walk through parkland.
Weather can change rapidly at high elevations. It's essential to wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress in layers. Always pack rain gear, even if the forecast is clear. The balds are very exposed, so bring sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and plenty of water. It's also wise to carry a map, a compass or GPS device, and some snacks.
The most popular and convenient parking area is at Carvers Gap, located right on the North Carolina/Tennessee state line. This large parking lot provides direct access to the Appalachian Trail, leading north to the famous balds or south toward Roan High Knob. It is a very popular spot, especially on weekends and during peak season, so it's best to arrive early to secure a space.
While the main ridgeline trails are known for their views rather than waterfalls, there are beautiful falls nearby. A short drive from the highlands will take you to Elk River Falls, a highly-regarded local spot featuring a dramatic waterfall with trails leading to viewing points. It's a great addition to your trip after a hike on the balds.
This is a classic Roan Highlands hike, covering about 5 miles round-trip with moderate difficulty. Starting from Carvers Gap, you'll ascend across the open, grassy summits of Round Bald and Jane Bald. The trail then continues with a final climb to Grassy Ridge Bald. The path is well-defined but rocky in sections, and it is almost entirely exposed to the elements, offering non-stop views.
Yes, backpacking is a popular activity. The Appalachian Trail offers numerous opportunities for multi-day trips. You can camp at designated sites or shelters, such as the Roan High Knob Shelter, which is the highest-elevation shelter on the entire AT. Dispersed camping is also allowed in many areas, but be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations.
For a beautiful woodland experience, take the Appalachian Trail south (westbound) from Carvers Gap toward Roan High Knob. This trail leads you through a magical-feeling, high-elevation spruce-fir forest, which is lush, mossy, and fragrant. It provides a completely different atmosphere compared to the sunny, open balds.
While many of the most famous hikes along the Appalachian Trail are out-and-back, you can find loop trails within the area. For an easy and accessible option, the Brantry Lough and Wood trail offers a pleasant circuit around a lake and through woodland. Roan Mountain State Park at the base of the mountain also has its own network of loop trails of varying lengths.


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