There's No Better Place For A Exhilarating Winter Adventure Than This Mountain Top Hike In Tennessee
By Chris Dodge|Published December 04, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
Fresh, pure, and bright white snow creates a sense of childlike wonder that’s impossible to deny. After several years of experiencing long and frigid winters, I thought I might have lost the spark that came from the first snow. However, I found that a hike up the Round Bald Trail after a snowstorm rejuvenated my imagination and sparked my inner child. If you are looking to surround yourself in a winter wonderland, a winter hike to Roan Mountain, Tennessee, is all you need to experience the true magic of snow.
We woke up one morning and were surprised to see our yard blanketed with a fresh coat of snow. We knew immediately that we needed to go out and get caught up in the wonder of the season before it melted.
We have been to Roan Mountain many times and we will usually hike up to Round Bald to take in the views of the mountains, but this day was going to be a wholly different experience.
We knew we were in for a treat once we arrived at Roan Mountain State Park and witnessed the flowing river with snow-covered trees bending towards the flowing water. We sat just watching the water for some time because it was so quiet and peaceful.
I felt like we had stepped through a wardrobe and we were traveling through the countryside found in Narnia. The whole scene looked completely otherworldly and was filled with enchanted wonder. Our excitement grew as we approached the trailhead, knowing soon we would be walking among this gorgeous scene.
When we arrived at the trailhead, the familiar sign letting us know that we were now on the North Carolina border was completely covered in a layer of drifting snow. We checked the temperature and it was a freezing -6 degrees Fahrenheit! Despite the cold, we knew we couldn’t miss such a rare and wonderful opportunity.
After bundling up, we took off to climb the mountain. The wintery mix was the perfect medley of ingredients to create the most beautiful winter scene we have ever seen.
The rain had frozen on the pine needles, creating a layer of glittering, crystallized ice, that was blanketed with a fluffy layer of fresh snow. It was the most fascinating thing to see; the most enchanting winter wonderland in Tennessee.
A trip through what I call “The Dead Forest” (an area that houses tight groupings of evergreens) was also just as magical. The silence of snow mixed with the crunch of our boots along the trail created a wonderful symphony.
The fog of winter had settled in, making for low visibility as we emerged from the forest. That didn’t matter to us, though, because the journey itself was one of the most spectacular winter adventures we have ever had.
Full of joy and gaining a new sense of childlike wonder, there was nothing left to do but grab my puppy and warm him in my arms, then turn around back down the mountain.
A simple winter hike in Roan Mountain, Tennessee, created lifelong memory that we will never forget. Adventures are best when you embrace the moment and don’t allow circumstances to dictate your day. We work hard as a family to not allow inconveniences to detract from our wanderlust.
So next time you’re looking for things to do in the winter in Tennessee, take it as a challenge to get outside and witness our beautiful world. If you are intrigued by this wonderous journey check out our Adventuring in the Moment video to get a look at this winter wonderland.
Being prepared is always important while exploring the outdoors. There are two things I always have with me during winter hikes: my micro spikes for when it gets icy and my AllTrails app to help guide my way. Make sure you check them both out because they have been a lifesaver for me in the past!
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