Full Day Hike to Charlies Bunion on the Appalachian Trail
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
On this hike a knowledgeable guide will take you down the famous Appalachian Trail to one of the best views in the entire Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the way guests will learn about the history of the early settlors in the mountains, the flora and fauna of the Southern Appalachians, and the founding of the most visited national park in the country.
Available options
Full Day Hike to Charlies Bunion on the Appalachian Trail
What's included
Bottled water
Snacks
What's not included
Parking Pass- available through GSMNP starting at $5
Bring your own lunch to enjoy outdoors in the mountains, or order a wrap through SMG for $10.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
5 reviews
5★
5
4★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
GSMNP Parking Pass Required
Meeting point
We meet at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center off of Highway 441/321 just north of Gatlinburg. You will follow your guide from there to the trailhead.
Important notes
A parking pass from GSMNP is required for this activity. Details about the parking pass including online purchase can be found at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm
About Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a charming mountain city nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its stunning natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and rich Appalachian culture, it's a year-round destination offering outdoor adventures, scenic views, and a welcoming small-town atmosphere.
Top Attractions
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most visited national park in the US, offering stunning mountain scenery, diverse wildlife, and numerous hiking trails.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free entry
Gatlinburg Space Needle
A 400-foot observation tower offering panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
Moderate
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
A popular aquarium featuring a wide variety of marine life, interactive exhibits, and a penguin habitat.
Entertainment
2-3 hours
Moderate to Expensive
Ober Gatlinburg
A year-round amusement park and ski area offering activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and an alpine coaster.
Entertainment
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive
Anakeesta
An outdoor adventure park with treetop trails, zip lines, and scenic views of the Smoky Mountains.
Adventure
Half day to full day
Moderate to Expensive
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fried Catfish
Crispy fried catfish, often served with hushpuppies and coleslaw
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan
Biscuits and Gravy
Fluffy biscuits smothered in savory sausage gravy
Breakfast
Can be made vegetarian with vegetable gravy
Mountain Trout
Freshly caught trout, often grilled or fried
Main Course
Not vegetarian or vegan
Apple Stack Cake
A traditional Appalachian cake made with layers of spiced apples and cake
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains
Zip-lining at Anakeesta
Mountain coaster rides
Scenic drives through the Smokies
Visiting spas and wellness centers
Dining with a view
Exploring the Arts and Crafts Community
Visiting local museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August, October (fall foliage season)
Summer brings warm weather and outdoor activities, while fall offers stunning foliage and cooler temperatures. Crowds are highest during these times, especially in October.
18-30°C (summer), 5-20°C (fall)
64-86°F (summer), 41-68°F (fall)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (GMT-5:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Gatlinburg is generally a safe destination, but visitors should take common precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
Getting there
By air
- McGhee Tyson Airport • 45 miles (72 km) from Gatlinburg
- Knoxville Airport • 50 miles (80 km) from Gatlinburg
By bus
Gatlinburg Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
A convenient and scenic way to get around town. Trolleys are frequent and easy to use.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Gatlinburg
Arts and Crafts Community
The Village
Day trips
Pigeon Forge
7 miles (11 km) • Half day to full day
A nearby town known for its entertainment attractions, shopping, and dining.
Cades Cove
16 miles (26 km) • Full day
A scenic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with historic cabins and wildlife.
Cherokee National Forest
30 miles (48 km) • Full day
A vast forest offering hiking, camping, and scenic drives.
Festivals
Gatlinburg's Winter Magic • November to February
Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair • August (annual event)
Gatlinburg's Smoky Mountain Christmas • November to January
Pro tips
- Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and see wildlife
- Take the aerial tramway or scenic chairlift for stunning views of the mountains
- Explore the Arts and Crafts Community for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
- Try local specialties like fried catfish, biscuits and gravy, and apple stack cake
- Book accommodations and popular attractions well in advance, especially during peak seasons
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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