Charlies Bunion
A rugged outcrop on the Appalachian Trail with dramatic panoramic views — perfect for seasoned hikers chasing unforgettable Smoky Mountain scenery.
📍 Trail Details
Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Distance: 8.1 miles roundtrip
Estimated Time: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Elevation Gain: ~1,640 ft
Trailhead Coordinates: 35.6117° N, 83.4251° W
Parking Info: Newfound Gap parking area — fills up early
Dog Friendly: ❌ (No dogs allowed on most GSMNP trails)
Kid Friendly: ❌ (Best for ages 12+ with trail experience)
Best Seasons: April–October (especially fall for leaf color)
🧭 Trail Description
The journey to Charlies Bunion begins on the Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap, immediately climbing into the clouds with mist-laced evergreens and crisp alpine air. After about 2 miles, you'll pass Icewater Spring Shelter — a great spot to pause and refill water if you're equipped with a filter.
From there, the trail winds along the ridgeline with sweeping views through narrow switchbacks and rocky ledges. The final 0.2 miles takes you out onto the rugged rock formation known as Charlies Bunion — a dramatic perch above the Smokies.
📝 Tip: Get an early start to catch the rising sun washing over the ridgeline. The views are worth the effort, but the footing can be slick — especially after rain.
🏕 What to Bring
We recommend packing smart — weather can shift quickly at elevation:
🎒 [Hurshel’s Trail Pack] – Lightweight with side bottle pockets & a chest strap for ridge hikes
🧥 [WindShell Jacket] – Wind picks up fast near the Bunion
🥾 [Trail Runners or Hiking Boots] – There’s plenty of rocky, uneven terrain
💧 Water filter – Optional but helpful near Icewater Spring
🗺 Map or download AllTrails offline
Gear up with trail-tested essentials from Hurshel’s Outfitters.
🧢 Insider Notes
Arrive before 9am to secure parking at Newfound Gap.
Bring layers — temps at elevation are often 10–15° cooler than the base.
In spring and summer, keep an eye out for flame azalea and mountain laurel blooms.
Closest town: Gatlinburg, TN (20 minutes) — grab a bite after your hike or browse gear at our Hurshel’s pop-up inside Smoky Mountain Mercantile.
👣 More Like This:
[Mount Le Conte via Alum Cave] – Challenging / 11 miles / Epic views
[Andrews Bald] – Easy / 3.5 miles / Family-friendly + wildflowers
[Baskins Creek Falls] – Moderate / 3 miles / Hidden waterfall vibes
✨ Ready to Explore?
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