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Appalachian Trail: Newfound Gap to Davenport Gap

The second half of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Also in Tennessee, United States of America

Hiking Difficult

Distance
52 km
Ascent
2.4 km
Descent
3.5 km
Duration
1 day +
Low Point
415 m
High Point
1.9 km
Gradient
10˚
Appalachian Trail: Newfound Gap to Davenport Gap Map

Newfound Gap Road, also referred to as US-441, is the southern terminus for this popular segment. Given that the road is maintained year-round, this serves as a popular trailhead and resupply point for the weary thru-hiker. A large bus, trailer, and RV parking area also make it extremely popular among tourists.

Description

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

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between March and November

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area