Charlie’s Bunion — Great Smoky Mountains
I first saw Charlie’s Bunion while section hiking the AT, but the Smokies were being the Smokies — which meant clouds, fog, and zero view. Ever since, I’ve wanted to come back on a clear day and see what I missed.
We happened to be in the area the week of Thanksgiving, so I decided it was time for a re-do. I went alone, mostly because no one else in my family considers waking up at 5:30 a.m. to climb a mountain “fun.” Their loss! The trail was peaceful, beautiful, and absolutely worth the early alarm.
It was cold and windy at the top (hence the rosy cheeks in every photo). I’ve also been trying to get faster at hiking — mainly to keep up with my kids — and I’m proud to report I did this 8-mile trek in just over 4 hours, which is record speed for my slowpoke self.
🥾 Hike Facts
Distance: 7.94 miles out and back
Elevation Gain: ~1,900 ft
Trailhead: Newfound Gap (follows the Appalachian Trail)
Highlights: Narrow ridge views, dramatic rock outcrop, classic Smokies scenery
Vibe: Windy, high-altitude, invigorating AT hiking
🌄 The Trail Experience
Charlie’s Bunion is a popular hike, but starting early meant I only saw two people on the way up. At the summit, a few more hikers joined — mostly fellow folks who had temporarily escaped their families for a Thanksgiving-week adventure. Apparently, we were all on the same wavelength.
🎒 What I Packed
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Garmin InReach
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Snacks + lunch
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MGO water bottle with electrolyte mix
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Sawyer filter (there are plenty of water sources on the AT)
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Mini first aid kit
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My watercolor kit
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Headlamp
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Warm layers (so necessary!)
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Trekking poles
⛰️ Difficulty
I’d call this hike moderate-plus. It’s rocky and has steady climbing, especially in the first three miles where most of the elevation gain happens. The upside? The way back down feels much quicker.
By the time I was descending, the trail was getting noticeably busier. And, as always in the Smokies, I was surprised by how many people start hiking without a plan or even knowing what trail they’re on.
Apparently I looked semi-competent — and I was hiking fast — because I got stopped six times by people asking for directions. One kid asked how far the trail went, and when I told him it went all the way to Maine, he flat-out didn’t believe me. The most surprising part? His parents didn’t know they were on the Appalachian Trail.
Friendly PSA:
Please don’t start hiking in the Smokies without knowing what trail you’re on.
It’s funny… until it isn’t.
🎨 Sketching & Final Thoughts
I managed to whip up a little sketch from the top — cold fingers and all. Charlie’s Bunion is truly lovely, and I hope you get to experience it someday, rain or shine. Honestly, it’s beautiful either way.
