People normally flock from Florida to the Smokies to see the snow atop of Newfound Gap during the month of March, but this unseasonably warm weather is already pushing forward most of the wildflower blooms.
Newfound Gap is the highest point accessible by car at the moment within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Newfound Gap parking lot rises just above 5,000 feet in elevation. Although the parking area is constantly flooded with visitors to admire the monument and the scenic overlook, the Appalachian Trail accessible through the same area provides a great escape from the buzz of Knoxville.
In order to get to the Appalachian Trailhead going north at Newfound Gap, the visitor has to stay straight on US 441 South going towards Cherokee, N.C. Newfound Gap is just 30 minutes away from Gatlinburg and a total of roughly 14 miles.
Seventy-two miles of Appalachian Trail zigzags its way across the Smokies. For upcoming Spring Break, I highly encourage a backpacking trip down a part of the Appalachian Trail, just make sure to reserve your shelters in advance.
A high point along the Appalachian Trail is Charlies Bunion. Named after everyone’s favorite foot deformity, this bare rock formation provides a neat geologic formation and an exhilarating view sure not to be forgotten.
Charlies Bunion is an eight-mile round-trip hike down the Appalachian Trail. This part of the trail is accessible from the Newfound Gap parking area. The trail gains only 1,640 total feet over the spread of four miles. The first mile proves to be some of the steepest part so once you get past that part, the trail is only an easy walk along a mountain ridge.
The trees are finally starting to spring back to life, and this classic hike will give you stunning views. This trail is extremely popular in the summer time. Because the visibility and air quality are exponentially better in the winter and early spring, right now is the time to go see the Bunion and the gorgeous views around it.
Please be careful once you get to the summit. Sharp drops do occur, and falling will not only hurt your pride but also possibly your life. Be sure to wear layers because Newfound Gap is 20 degrees cooler than the normal low elevations around Gatlinburg and Sugarlands. Water is always a necessity, and first aid kits come in handy.
Lastly, enjoy your hike. Bring a picnic and read up on Horace Kephart, who I see as one of the fathers of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Kephart hiked this trail a century ago, and visitors can enjoy this scenic hike all thanks to his dedication to the national park service.
— Emily DeLanzo is a junior in environmental studies. She can be reached at [email protected].
