For those expecting to turn this into an overnight trip, Icewater Spring Shelter is only 3 miles into this segment, though its popularity and proximity to the trailhead mean it is frequently near its capacity. The Tricorner Knob Shelter lies directly in the middle, roughly 15.5 miles north of Newfound Gap.

For those looking for a shorter hike, Charlies Bunion, a rare and picturesque rock outcropping, is an 8-mile round trip from Newfound Gap. According to Wikipedia, this rock formation, resting at 5,565' above sea level, "..comprises the western wing of the Sawteeth, a series of narrow, jagged cliffs connecting the high peaks of the Central Smokies with the high peaks of the Eastern Smokies."

Heading north, an incredibly difficult stretch of trail lies between Charlies Bunion and Tricorner Knob. Your reward for completing this rugged piece of the Smokies is the view from atop Mount Guyot, the 4th highest mountain in the Eastern United States.

The final portion of this loop is a long, and often steep, descent down to the Davenport Trail Shelter, just before reaching the Pigeon River and Interstate 40 intersection.

Worth noting, this portion of the Appalachian Trail falls almost entirely within the boundaries of the National Park Service, meaning dogs are not allowed to use the trail. If you are completing a thru-hike with your dog, research your options for this segment, as you do have some alternatives. Sources: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/chimneys-alternative-charlies-bunion.htm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MountGuyot(GreatSmokyMountains) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CharliesBunion