Charlies Bunion (Smoky Mountains) Trail Guide

Charlies Bunion Trail is an underrated hike; it's among the best day hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's challenging without being too hard and offers incredible views and a mini-Application Trail experience. The Charlies Bunion Trail is one of my favorites in the park and in this video I'll show you exactly how to do it.
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00:00 Why It's Great
00:32 Where to Start
01:17 Directions
03:15 Gear
06:40 Charlies Bunion
08:14 The Jump Off
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In my latest video, "How to Hike Charlies Bunion Trail," I take you on a scenic and invigorating hike along the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains. This hike offers a quieter alternative to the often crowded Mount LeConte, providing stunning views without the heavy foot traffic. Joining me are Daryl and Steven from Overwatch and Rescue, who help demonstrate the trail’s features and ensure a safe hiking experience.
Starting at Newfound Gap, which serves as the trailhead, the hike spans approximately 8 miles out and back along the ridge that forms the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. With moderate difficulty, the trail presents a blend of gradual ascents and descents, traversing through varying terrains that include rocky and rooty paths.
Throughout the hike, we follow the iconic white blazes of the Appalachian Trail, which stretches from Georgia to Maine. Along the way, I point out important landmarks and offer practical tips, such as the need for sturdy trail runners, taking sufficient water, and the essential backcountry gear. The lack of cellular service on much of the trail underscores the value of carrying a satellite communicator.
One of the highlights of this trail is the Icewater Spring Shelter, a typical Appalachian Trail shelter with exceptional views. From here, the path continues to Charlies Bunion, a rock outcrop that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains. The name "Charlies Bunion" itself has an amusing backstory involving a hiking companion of Horace Kephart, one of the figures instrumental in the founding of the National Park.
For those interested in extending their hike, I also detail a side trip to "The Jump-Off" - a nearby point that offers dramatic views of Charlies Bunion and the broader landscape of the Smoky Mountains. This additional segment makes the journey even more rewarding.
Overall, this video provides a comprehensive guide to hiking Charlies Bunion Trail, complete with historical anecdotes, hiking tips, and stunning visuals that capture the essence of the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or someone looking to explore less-trodden paths in the Smokies, this guide offers the insights you need to enjoy one of the park’s most picturesque trails.

[@donrobinson5540]

Love my Smokies!

[@ianmacfarlane9454]

Another stunning video Chris,👍👍 thanks for all the hard work🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@peterbedford2610]

Thanks

[@dickspade7045]

Thanks for taking me along on this great hike. My Wife & I tried to do it, too late in the day & failed. "advanced maturity" now eliminates a 2nd try, so going with you guys is great. Thanks again.

[@mattt8889]

sweat heifer creek? great video!

[@JasonWicklund]

Now you need to come visit Shenandoah National Park in Virginia! Old Rag is calling your name. Plus a few great waterfalls!

[@Hikingguy]

Ha yes! When I used to live on the east coast I hiked there many times, hoping to get back in 2024

[@brad_marston]

Thank you! Visited Smoky National Park in 1984 but didn't know where to go. Now I do.

[@johnnyfulano5506]

Must be beautiful in spring. Looks like you're sticking with the extra wide Hoka speedgoats 👍🏻

[@ervinslens]

Beautiful and refreshing scenery bud and as always amazing atmosphere.

[@Jazmin_Ortega]

I was there earlier this year, so this video brings back some good memories. 🙏🏼

[@overwatchxrescue]

Thanks Cris for hosting Darrell and Stephen from Overwatch x Rescue on this amazing hike!

[@trailslug893]

Thanks for the valuable hiking info. What time of year did you go and what day did you go as I did this hike this past September and boy was it crowded. So much so that we never did get to go to up on the bunyon as there were simply too many hikers.