Full Day Hike to Charlies Bunion on the Appalachian Trail

Setting out on a full-day hike to Charlie’s Bunion along the Appalachian Trail is an exhilarating adventure that shouldn’t be missed. This 8-mile round trip promises stunning vistas, challenging terrain, and a chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. With a small group size and professional guidance, hikers can expect an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking views and personal connections with nature. What awaits those who take on this challenge? Let’s dive in and find out.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 5 Hiking And Trekking Tours In Gatlinburg.

Hike Overview

The full-day hike to Charlies Bunion takes travelers along the iconic Appalachian Trail in Gatlinburg, USA.

Set out on a full-day hike to Charlies Bunion along the renowned Appalachian Trail in Gatlinburg, USA.

This 5-star rated adventure boasts stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Hikers can expect to be provided with snacks, bottled water, and the option to order a wrap for lunch.

The meeting point is the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, and the hike returns to the same location. A strong fitness level is required, and the group size is limited to 4 travelers.

Guests must have a GSMNP Parking Pass, which can be purchased starting at $5.

Inclusions

This hike includes a variety of provisions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Snacks and bottled water are provided to keep hikers fueled and hydrated. A parking pass for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is available, starting at $5.

Hikers can choose to bring their own lunch or order a wrap for $10. These inclusions aim to make the hike more accessible and seamless for participants.

Meeting and Pickup

Hikers will meet at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center off Highway 441/321, located at 1011 Banner Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. The group departs at 8:00 am sharp, so don’t be late! After the hike, the tour returns to the same meeting point.

| Meeting Point | Start Time | End Point | Parking Pass |

|—————|————|———–|————–|

| Gatlinburg Welcome Center | 8:00 am | Returns to meeting point | Required ($5+) |

Bring your gear and get ready for an unforgettable adventure on the Appalachian Trail! The hike to Charlie’s Bunion promises stunning views and a challenging trek.

Requirements

Strong physical fitness is required for this hike to Charlie’s Bunion. The 8-mile round trip over challenging terrain isn’t for the faint of heart. Hikers must be able to navigate steep, rocky trails and steep ascents/descents.

Anyone with serious medical conditions like heart problems should avoid this hike. The trail is also not wheelchair accessible.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers. A valid GSMNP parking pass is mandatory, which can be purchased starting at $5. Proper hiking gear, including sturdy boots, is essential.

Booking Information

The hike to Charlie’s Bunion is priced from $460.00 per group, which can accommodate up to 4 travelers.

Booking is flexible, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Visitors can also choose the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.

Once confirmed, hikers will receive all the necessary details, including the meeting point, start time, and what to bring.

With a maximum group size of 4, this hike offers a personalized experience on the Appalachian Trail.

Securing a GSMNP parking pass is required, which can be purchased starting at $5.

Preparing for the Hike

Although the hike to Charlie’s Bunion requires a strong physical fitness level, it’s essential to prepare properly to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The hike to Charlie’s Bunion demands physical fitness, but proper preparation ensures a safe and rewarding experience.

Wear sturdy, broken-in hiking boots and dress in layers to accommodate the changing weather conditions. Pack plenty of water and high-energy snacks to fuel your adventure.

Don’t forget sun protection and rain gear, just in case. Check the forecast and trail conditions before setting out.

Most importantly, listen to your body and take breaks as needed. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle this challenging yet rewarding hike on the Appalachian Trail.

Hiking the Appalachian Trail

As hikers set out on the Appalachian Trail, they’ll be treated to stunning vistas and a sense of adventure. The trail winds through lush forests, over rocky ridges, and past cascading waterfalls. Navigating the trail requires focus and caution, as the terrain can be challenging at times. Hikers should stay hydrated, pack snacks, and be prepared for changeable weather conditions.

| Terrain | Difficulty |

|———|————|

| Rocky | Moderate |

| Steep | Challenging|

| Uneven | Moderate |

Reaching the iconic Charlies Bunion is a rewarding experience, offering panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. With proper preparation and a spirit of exploration, hikers can fully enjoy the natural beauty of this renowned trail.

Reaching Charlie’s Bunion

After ascending the challenging Alum Cave Trail, hikers reach the iconic overlook known as Charlie’s Bunion.

This breathtaking viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains. Hikers can take in the sweeping views of rugged peaks and lush valleys.

The rocky outcrop provides a perfect spot to rest, refuel, and enjoy the scenic splendor. From this vantage point, one can easily see why Charlie’s Bunion is a beloved destination for Appalachian Trail enthusiasts.

The hike’s reward is well worth the effort, as visitors are treated to an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Smokies.

The Sum Up

This full-day hike to Charlie’s Bunion on the Appalachian Trail offers a chance to learn about the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. With a knowledgeable guide, snacks, and optional lunch, it’s the perfect way to challenge yourself and connect with nature. Just remember to bring proper hiking gear and a good fitness level – it’s an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss.