Fall running in the Roan Highlands

It was a crisp fall morning in the Roan Highlands where North Carolina and Tennessee collide presenting some of the most gorgeous views I have seen. Wifers, the dog and I jumped in to the car and headed north drinking plenty of coffee as we watched the temperature decline as the landscape did nothing but rise. The goal was to run on the Appalachian Trail from Carvers Gap to Hump Mountain. What we thought would be a nice rolling 16 miles turned into a cold, sloppy, 19 miles with some rather brutal climbs but even more intense views.

With one foot in Tennessee and the other in North Carolina we started down the A.T. All three of us felt great  and who wouldn't with the views we were soaking in. Not many people were on the trail as it was still cold and mostly frozen. There were a few hunters out though which made us feel great that they came to this very spot to hunt black bear! Nothing like starting a good long run knowing the bear population is doing well on the trail. Nonetheless the run began and off we went. It was hard to not stop and take more pictures but knowing each step provided a more gorgeous view than the last, if that was even possible, we pushed on.

The run went great, no bears, though at about mile 8 Kirra had no shortage of energy as we spooked three deer. She ran faster than ever before chasing them. She loves nothing more in the world, except a bag a marshmallows which she ate the day prior without our knowing of course, than running with deer. With ease she caught the deer and pranced across the 5000' bald as she ran as if she was a deer herself. A few minutes later she returned ready to continue the run and climb the final accent to Hump Mountain. The top offered yet again a gorgeous expansive 360 view. There is no better way to enjoy a few fig newtons than sitting on the top of a mountain feeling like you are on top of the world. 

After a few moments to enjoy the view and catch our breath it was back to the trail. The run back, though sore and ready for some lunch, continued to amaze us with awesome views. The biggest surprise came as the deer returned for a victory lap with Kirra. This time she ran with them for a good 3-4 minutes as I had to go chase after her to coral her back in. As I write this now she is comatose on the couch dreaming about running still, or maybe having a nightmare since we had to lift her up on the couch after her first 19 mile run. 

A few climbs later and a couple of falls we returned to the car which was hard to find in the over filled lot at Carvers Gap. Almost a hundred people had gathered to hike the balds. And sure enough the hunters came to the right spot as they drove off with a black bear tied to the top of their truck. Nothing is more gratifying though than the solemn peaceful view enjoyed by alone just us some 9 miles down the trail.  Another day in the sunshine with the most amazing woman ever and a dog that never stops! Till next time.......