Grassy Ridge Bald facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grassy Ridge Bald |
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Grassy Ridge Bald viewed from Grandfather Mountain
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 6,184 ft (1,885 m) |
| Prominence | 688 ft (210 m) |
| Parent peak | Roan High Knob |
| Geography | |
| Location | Avery & Mitchell counties North Carolina, U.S. |
| Parent range | |
| Topo map | USGS Carvers Gap |
| Climbing | |
| Easiest route | Hike |
Grassy Ridge Bald is a beautiful mountain located in North Carolina, United States. It is a part of the larger Roan Highlands area. This mountain stands tall within the Pisgah National Forest, a huge protected area.
Grassy Ridge Bald reaches an elevation of about 6,184 feet (1,885 meters) above sea level. Its summit sits right on the border between Avery County, North Carolina and Mitchell County, North Carolina. The mountain is also important because it helps feed streams that flow into the North Toe River.
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What is a "Bald" Mountain?
You might wonder why it's called "Grassy Ridge Bald." A "bald" mountain is a special kind of peak. Unlike most mountains covered in trees all the way to the top, bald mountains have large, open areas on their summits. These areas are covered mostly by grasses and shrubs, not tall trees.
Scientists believe these bald spots might have formed due to strong winds, harsh weather, or even past grazing by animals. They create unique ecosystems where different plants and animals can thrive.
Location and Geography
Grassy Ridge Bald is found in the western part of North Carolina. It is part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which are a section of the larger Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Mountains are known for their rounded peaks and misty, blue appearance.
The mountain is also part of the Unaka Range, a smaller mountain range within the Appalachians. Its location makes it a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
Hiking and the Appalachian Trail
Grassy Ridge Bald is a favorite destination for hikers. It offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The famous Appalachian Trail (AT) passes very close to Grassy Ridge Bald. The AT is a long hiking path that stretches over 2,000 miles from Georgia to Maine.
Many hikers on the AT take a side trip to visit Grassy Ridge Bald. The easiest way to reach the summit is by hiking. The trails are well-maintained and offer a great way to experience the beauty of the area.
Nature and Wildlife
The area around Grassy Ridge Bald is home to many different plants and animals. Because it's part of the Pisgah National Forest, it's a protected habitat.
- Plants: You can find various types of grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs on the bald. In the surrounding forests, there are many types of trees like oak, hickory, and spruce.
- Animals: Wildlife in the area includes white-tailed deer, black bears, and many bird species. You might also spot smaller animals like squirrels and rabbits.
The unique environment of the bald areas supports plants that might not grow elsewhere. This makes Grassy Ridge Bald an important place for biodiversity.
Pisgah National Forest
Grassy Ridge Bald is located within the Pisgah National Forest. This forest covers over 500,000 acres in the western mountains of North Carolina. It was one of the first national forests in the eastern United States.
Pisgah National Forest is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. It provides opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife watching. It also helps protect important natural resources like water and timber.
Roan Highlands
Grassy Ridge Bald is a key part of the Roan Highlands. This area is famous for its stunning "balds" and beautiful rhododendron gardens. The Roan Highlands stretch along the border of North Carolina and Tennessee.
The Roan Highlands are considered one of the most beautiful sections of the entire Appalachian Trail. They offer wide-open views that are rare in the eastern United States. Many people visit in early summer to see the amazing pink and purple rhododendron flowers bloom across the balds.
