Description

This circuit is the perfect half-day trail run if the [Smokies High Peaks](https://fatmap.com/routeid/1275603) seems a bit too daunting.

It begins at one of the quieter trailheads within the National Park, and showcases two of the most coveted overlooks on the Appalachian Trail in the region: Charlies Bunion and the "Jump Off." With over 4,000' of climbing in 15-miles, this route is anything but easy - your legs will undoubtedly feel the punishment the following day! This lollipop begins at the bottom of Kephart Prong Trail, named after an early advocate for what is now America's most-visited National Park.

[According to Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horace_Kephart), "[Kephart] was later named one of the fathers of the national park," and even "helped plot the route of the Appalachian Trail through the Smokies." After climbing up Kephart Prong, the loop portion of the route is best run/hiked clockwise.

It could be equally rewarding when reversed, and water is also abundant along the loop as long as you filter or treat it first.

As with most trails in the Smokies, dogs **are not** allowed on any portion of this loop. Both Charlies Bunion and The Jump Off come around the mid-point of the run, as you follow the Appalachian Trail.

The turns can be easy to miss, but both spurs have been included in this GPS.

Ice Spring Shelter is also located along this portion and is a great opportunity to refill on water.

For those who only run when chased, it's also a great way to turn this loop into an overnight trip in the summer and fall.

During the spring, however, it would be wise to find a campsite off of the Appalachian Trail since thru-hikers can quickly fill the shelter.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horace_Kephart