How far would it be to hike from the trail closest to Roanoke VA to ending near Asheville NC? And what is the terrain like on this section for novice hikers/climbers? Thank you!

Depending upon where you actually start and finish, you'll traverse about 500 miles. You will encounter a lot of mountains including peaks above 5000 ft. This will happen many times. You don't need climbing skills because you are walking up the mountains, not scaling cliffs. Any one who is in decent shape will be able to do it. Not that it is easy, but it is achievable.

No idea 💡 brother