Charlie’s Bunion via Appalachian Trail, Tennessee
Total Distance: 8.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,981 feet
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate
The Hike: This hike is one of the most famous attractions within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it’s easy to see why. After hiking through a stunningly beautiful pine forest, hikers are brought to a large rock outcropping with a formation that looks like – you guessed it – a giant bunion. The formation was actually created by mother nature in 1925 when a forest fire burned most the the vegetation in the area. In 1929 a severe flood washed away any remaining soil and the bunion emerged in the aftermath.
Sights from the bunion are unbelievable as you get unobstructed views of the dramatic mountains that make up the park. Hike this trail during the early summer months and thousands of mountain laurel blooms will be lining the area.
The Details: Park at the Newfound Gap Trailhead, and follow signs for the Appalachian Trail Northbound. After hiking for 2.9 miles, hikers will see a side trail leading to the Icewater Spring Backcountry Shelter. Stay on the Appalachian Trail at this intersection. After hiking for another mile, you will see a clearly marked side trail for Charlie’s Bunion. The main view point is about .1 miles down this side trail.
Once finished, retrace your steps back to the parking area at Newfound Gap.
Gear: For this hike, we recommend bringing along either the Winter or Summer Day Hike Essentials, depending on the season.
*The information in this article is for planning purposes only. Actual trail conditions may vary depending on environmental factors. It is always advised to get the latest trail information from a park office or ranger before you begin your hike.