Hi all, I've been doing an accelerated master's degree program so I haven't had much time to be online, or hammock but - I have a break in August and want to do some hiking.

Planning on heading over to the Roan Mountain area and hike some of the AT, but I can't seem to find any decent maps online. Before I buy the Nat Geo map of the area are there any guidebooks/maps that are better?

I am looking to hike for about 3 days since I haven't had any time to train with my husband and brother and our dog. My brother will be tent camping. I would like to know how the water is in the area and good parking spots. I have read that parking in Carvers Gap is safe but I need a second spot for the other car.

Are there any sections of the trail that are just so awesome we cannot miss it?

Initially we were going to hike Mt. Rogers but I don't think our muscles are up for the distance we want to hike there - we are saving that for the spring so I can see the baby ponies.