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 Reporter |
Summary: This challenging hike offers an alternative route to Charlies Bunion to avoid the crowds of Newfound Gap.The first 2 mi is a nice stroll through the area of and old CCC camp.The Kephart Shelter is in the middle of this 3-way intersection.Take the Sweat Heifer Trail to the left; the next 3.7 miles will be the hardest part of the hike. Near the top you reach a small clearing and as you catch your breath slowly turn around for breath taking views of NC.A few more yards turn right on the Appalachian Trail and continue on the AT when you reach the Boulevard Trail. About 1.5 mi the spur trail to the left to Charlies Bunion.When you leave Chrlies Bunion you can continue to the right to reach the AT and turn left for about 0.2 mi to the Dry Sluice Trail. Turn right on the this nice soft wooded trail for 1.3 mi.Turn right on Grassy Branch Trail and you will quickly descend for 2.5 mi to the backside of the Kephart Shelter.It is a easy stroll back on the Kephart Prong to your car Trailhead: From Gatlinburg; 441 South to Newfound Gap then continue for about 8.8 miles. The parking area is on the east side of the road. Cross the large footbridge. Optional backpack trip to Icewater Springs Shelter Reservation is required for all shelters Backcountry office 865-436-1231 (Lat:35.5857 Lon:-83.35827) Trail Guides for Charlies Bunion via Kephart Loop: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Day & Overnight hikes in GSMNP by Johhny Malloy (Menasha Ridge Press) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: GSMNP 865-436-1200 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted 74 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Submit your own review Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: North Carolina Hiking, North Carolina Trails, North Carolina Hikes, Swain County Hiking, Swain County Trails, Swain County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
