Six reasons to hike the 71 mile section of the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smokies.
The epic long distance trail that is the Appalachian Trail (AT), weaves through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a total of 71 miles.
Starting at Fontana Dam, located on the west boundary of the park, your 71 mile journey will take you to the east boundary of the park, finishing at Davenport Gap.
Key facts:
71 mile point-to-point hike from Fontana Dam (mile 164 on the AT). to Davenport Gap (mile 236 on the AT).
Highlights include multiple viewpoints, including Clingman’s Dome at 6,643 feet (the highest point of the AT)
No camping in tents required if you can secure a shelter reservation in advance.
Image from AllTrails website.
Permit and shelter requirements:
Permits: You need a backcountry permit to camp overnight in the park.
Shelters: There are around 12 shelters along the trail and spaces are limited. Shelters are only bookable 30 days in advance of the 1st night of your trip via the NPS website.
Prior to booking the shelters, decide your direction and daily estimated mileage. Then research and locate the closest shelters.
You will need to be flexible in the event that your preferred shelters are closed due to increased bear activity, annual maintenance etc.
If you are unsuccessful in reserving a shelter, there are backcountry campsites available.
Six reasons why the Great Smokies section of the Appalachian Trail is for everyone.
1. Well marked trail.
The Appalachian Trail is well marked by frequent and highly visible white blazes, making it easy to navigate and stay on trail.
In addition to the blazes, there are multiple signposts at all trail junctions.
2. Multiple water sources.
There are plenty of water sources located in close proximity to each backcountry shelter.
Simply head down with your water sfilter and you are in business!
3. Scenic viewpoints.
Hiking through the Great Smokies offers a true sense of remoteness, as you spend each day hiking deep within the dense forest.
As you catch your breath after dutifully making your way up some of the steeper climbs, you are rewarded with four notable viewpoints:
Shuckstack Mountain
Clingmans Dome - the highest point on the AT at 6,643 ft
Charlies Bunion
Mt Cammerer
4. Hiking community
A popular trail, you will meet amazing and friendly people on your hike in both directions.
Hiking more than one day and camping overnight opens up a genuine sense of camaraderie between hikers on the trail and at the shelters.
5. Wildlife
According the National Park Service, you are most likely to see deer, groundhogs, chipmunks and squirrels on your visit.
The Great Smokies is also home to over 1,500 black bears, the more famous of the park locals!
>> Take some time to read the hiking safety tips from the National Park Service ahead of your trip <<
6. Sleep in shelters.
If sleeping in a tent isn’t your thing, or you like the idea of carrying less in your pack, there are shelters available along the trail.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has around 12 shelters that must be reserved in advance for around $4 per night.
Whilst basic, the shelters offer a great experience to meet other hikers and you have all you need for the night.
Facilities vary by shelter and may include bear cables, privy and a seating area.
Feeling inspired?
I hiked the trail a few years ago with a great friend, spending six days on the trail hiking north. Staying in shelters for five nights, we hiked an average of 10-15 miles per day.
Flying from overseas, we hired a car and stayed at the Hike Inn (Fontana Dam) on our first and last night - using the shuttle service to get to and from the trailheads.
Fontana Dam to Davenport Gap 6 day itinerary
DAY 1: Fontana Dam > Mollies Ridge Shelter - 10.3 miles
DAY 2: Mollies Ridge Shelter > Derrick Knob Shelter - 12 miles
DAY 3: Derrick Knob Shelter > Mount Collins Shelter - 13.8 miles
DAY 4: Mount Collins Shelter > Pecks Corner Shelter - 14.9 miles
DAY 5: Pecks Corner Shelter Side Trail > Cosby Knob Shelter - 12.9 miles
DAY 6: Cosby Knob Shelter > Davenport Gap - 7.1 miles