Carvers Gap AT Trailhead Dispersed — Cherokee NF

Carvers Gap sits at roughly 5,500 feet on the Tennessee–North Carolina line, where the Appalachian Trail crosses the open balds of the Roan Highlands within Cherokee National Forest. The large paved parking area serves as the main launch point for backpacking trips into the balds, and overnight stays in the lot are a common practice — the walk to Round Bald is short, making the spot a practical base for stargazing and catching sunrise or sunset on the ridgeline. Pit toilets are on-site; no hookups or services of any kind.