Appalachian Trail Great Smoky Mountains section
Hike a legendary stretch of the Appalachian Trail through the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, offering epic views and abundant wildlife.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Appalachian Trail Great Smoky Mountains section
Best Time
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike a legendary stretch of the Appalachian Trail through the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, offering epic views and abundant wildlife.
"Absolutely beautiful up there. A must experience."
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Never feed bears. Store food securely and keep a safe distance. Be aware of your surroundings, especially near popular areas.
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Bring rain gear and extra layers, even on sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Clingmans Dome
Highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Ascend to the highest peak in the Smokies for breathtaking panoramic views. The observation tower offers 360-degree vistas.
Charlie's Bunion
Appalachian Trail section
A stunning rock outcropping with dramatic views. This moderate 8-mile out-and-back hike is a favorite for its rewarding scenery.
Newfound Gap
US Hwy 441
A key access point to the Appalachian Trail and stunning overlooks. It's a popular spot for both day hikers and backpackers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bear Safety is Paramount
Weather Can Change Rapidly
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Never feed bears. Store food securely and keep a safe distance. Be aware of your surroundings, especially near popular areas. +2
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Bring rain gear and extra layers, even on sunny days.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The AT can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety on longer hikes.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Download maps of the area and trail routes before you go.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐻 Bear Safety First!
Never feed bears. Store food securely and keep a safe distance. Be aware of your surroundings, especially near popular areas. +2
🧥 Pack Layers
Mountain weather changes fast. Bring rain gear and extra layers, even on sunny days.
🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots
The AT can be rocky and uneven. Good footwear is essential for comfort and safety on longer hikes.
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty. Download maps of the area and trail routes before you go.
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially on uphill climbs. Water sources may be limited or require purification.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking views and the immersive natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail in the Smokies. Many highlight the rewarding hikes, especially to spots like Charlie's Bunion and Clingmans Dome. While generally positive, some mention crowded conditions on popular days and the challenging nature of certain uphill sections.
"Terrific Fall day for hiking.
hiking north bound AT. Then hiked on Boulevard trail for 3 miles, turned back. Visited Jumpoff rock, having a great view. Met many hikers. Saw ice on one spot."
craig Lui
"Just on the border of Tennessee and North Caroline, this location provides great views of the national park. There are some good trails, and you can also bring your kids. They have restrooms there so that you can have a good time with your kids without any concern about it."
Otavio M C
"Hiked (8) miles of the AT beginning near Newfound Gap/Smoky Mountains National Park. Great experience, beautiful area. The AT is about 2,200 miles between Springer Mountain, Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, and passes through 14 states. A bit crowded on the day that I went. Look forward to going back again. A must experience. #NeverStopExploring 🥾🌞❤️
Fun Fact: The Appalachian trail was designated as the first National Scenic Trail by the National Trails System Act of 1968. The Trail is currently protected along more than 99% of its course by federal/state ownership of the land or by rights-of-way."
Debbie Anderson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Appalachian Trail (AT) runs for 71 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Key access points include Newfound Gap, which is easily reachable via US Highway 441, and Clingmans Dome. Many hikers start their journeys from these popular trailheads. 
Newfound Gap is located on US Highway 441, which connects Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, North Carolina. It's a scenic drive with ample parking, making it a convenient starting point for many AT sections.
Yes, popular trailheads like Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome have designated parking areas. However, these can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
Public transportation options directly to AT trailheads are very limited. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or use shuttle services arranged in advance from nearby towns like Gatlinburg or Cherokee.
While not official park services, some private companies offer shuttle services for backpackers looking to hike sections of the AT. It's advisable to research and book these in advance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to hike the Appalachian Trail within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, you will need to pay for parking if you plan to leave your vehicle for more than 30 minutes.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the few national parks that does not charge an entrance fee. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 30 minutes within the park.
Parking tags are available for daily, weekly, or annual passes. Daily tags cost $5, weekly tags are $15, and annual tags are $40. These can be purchased online or at various locations within the park.
Yes, a backcountry permit is required for all overnight stays in the backcountry of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including on the Appalachian Trail. These can be reserved online in advance.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open 24 hours a day, year-round, weather permitting. Trailheads like Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome are accessible at all times, though facilities like restrooms may have limited hours.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter brings cold temperatures and potential snow/ice.
Black bears are the most famous residents, but you might also see white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife. +2
Restrooms are available at major trailheads like Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome. However, along the trail itself, especially for backcountry camping, you'll need to practice Leave No Trace principles.
Difficulty varies. Sections near Newfound Gap can be moderate, while hikes to peaks like Charlie's Bunion are considered moderate to strenuous due to elevation gain. Clingmans Dome has a paved, steep path to the tower.
Yes, many sections are suitable for families with children, especially day hikes from Newfound Gap. Shorter, well-maintained trails are best for younger kids. Always supervise children closely.
📸 📸 Photography
Charlie's Bunion offers dramatic cliffside views, while Clingmans Dome provides sweeping panoramic vistas from its observation tower. Newfound Gap also has beautiful overlooks.
Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for landscape photography, casting a warm glow over the mountains. Early mornings can also provide beautiful mist-filled valleys.
A lightweight camera is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions, but pack light for hiking.
No, drone usage is prohibited in all national parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to protect wildlife and preserve the natural environment.
Include a person or a recognizable object in your shot to give a sense of scale. Wide-angle shots from high vantage points like Clingmans Dome or Charlie's Bunion are effective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When hiking with kids, focus on shorter distances and make it fun! Pack plenty of snacks and water, and encourage them to look for wildlife (from a safe distance, of course!). Trails like the paved path to Clingmans Dome observation tower are manageable for most ages, though steep. Always supervise children closely and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
🎒 Budget Backpackers
Backcountry permits are relatively inexpensive and essential for overnight stays. Packing your own food and camping gear will significantly reduce expenses. Many hikers find the experience of sleeping under the stars and waking up to mountain vistas to be priceless. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to keep these wild places pristine for future budget adventurers.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Consider bringing a lightweight camera setup with versatile lenses. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the landscape, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Be prepared for varying weather conditions, as fog and mist can add a unique, atmospheric quality to your photographs. Remember to always prioritize safety and respect park regulations, including the prohibition of drone usage.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Appalachian Trail in the Smokies
+1For those planning an extended trek, securing a backcountry permit is mandatory for overnight stays. These permits help manage the number of people in the wilderness areas, ensuring a more sustainable and enjoyable experience for everyone. The AT in the Smokies presents a varied hiking experience, from relatively gentle paths near overlooks to steep, rocky ascents that test even seasoned hikers. It's crucial to be prepared for the unpredictable mountain weather, which can shift from warm sunshine to chilly rain or even snow in a matter of hours.
Wildlife encounters are common, with black bears being a notable presence. Visitors are strongly advised to practice bear safety, including proper food storage and maintaining a safe distance. The beauty of this section of the AT lies not only in its challenging trails but also in the sense of accomplishment and connection with nature it provides. Whether you're aiming for a short day hike to a scenic overlook or a multi-day backpacking adventure, the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains offers an unforgettable experience.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
It is absolutely critical to remember that these are wild animals. Never approach bears, feed them, or leave food unattended. Proper food storage, such as using bear-resistant containers or hanging food bags away from your campsite, is essential. Maintaining a safe distance (at least 100 yards from bears and 50 yards from other wildlife) is paramount for both your safety and the animals' well-being. Be aware of your surroundings, make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals, and know what to do if you encounter a bear.
Beyond bears, the park is home to white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a diverse array of bird species. Respecting wildlife and their habitat is key to preserving the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail. By following safety guidelines and observing from a distance, you can have a memorable and responsible wildlife viewing experience.
Capturing the Majestic Smokies: Photography Tips
+1For the best photographic results, timing is everything. Early mornings are ideal for capturing the ethereal beauty of mist-filled valleys and soft, diffused light. Sunrises and sunsets paint the sky with vibrant colors, creating magical moments for landscape photography. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vastness of the mountains and a telephoto lens for capturing distant details or any wildlife you might spot.
+1Remember that drones are prohibited in national parks, so focus on ground-level photography and leveraging natural light. Always prioritize safety and your hiking experience over getting the perfect shot. Be mindful of your footing, especially on rocky or uneven terrain, and ensure you have a lightweight, durable camera setup that won't hinder your trek.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit