Charlies Bunion Appalachian Trail Hike 6 hr - Image 1
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Charlies Bunion Appalachian Trail Hike 6 hr

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  • Gatlinburg
  • 6 hrs
  • Updated November 2, 2026

Hike 8 rugged miles to Charlies Bunion, with sweeping Smokies views and local stories along the Appalachian Trail.

About this tour

Set out early for a quieter walk through the rugged high country of the Smokies. This Charlies Bunion Appalachian Trail hike follows an exposed stretch of trail, where cool mountain air and sweeping views reward the steady climb.

The 8-mile round trip typically takes 4 to 6 hours and is rated strenuous, with rocky footing and considerable elevation gain. Along the way, take in views of Mount LeConte, the Ocunaluftee watershed, and Sawteeth Ridge. Your guide shares stories of local settlers, Appalachian Trail through-hikers, the spruce-fir tree epidemic, and how Charlies Bunion got its name. The route also reveals how natural forces and human activity shaped this distinctive landscape.

A wilderness first aid-certified guide leads the hike, with water and snacks provided. Microspikes and a poncho are available if needed, and hiking poles can be requested. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring personal medication. Lunch is not included unless added on. Choose this Charlies Bunion Appalachian Trail hike for a challenging day outdoors, rich with mountain scenery and local stories.

Highlights

  • Hike a rugged, exposed stretch of the Appalachian Trail
  • Admire views of Mount LeConte, the Ocunaluftee watershed, and Sawteeth Ridge
  • Hear the story behind Charlies Bunion and local history
  • Learn about Appalachian Trail through-hikers and the spruce-fir tree epidemic
  • Breathe in cool mountain air on a quieter early-start hike

What's included

Included

  • Experienced guide certified in wilderness first aid
  • Water
  • Snacks
  • Microspikes if needed
  • Hiking poles upon request
  • Poncho if needed
  • First aid

Not included

  • Lunch unless added on
  • Weather-appropriate clothing
  • Proper hiking footwear

Ratings on each provider

The ratings and review counts each booking site shows for this tour.

Important information

  • The strenuous hike covers 8 miles round trip on rugged, rocky terrain with considerable elevation gain
  • An early start is recommended for a more secluded experience
  • Bring weather-appropriate clothing, hiking shoes, and personal medication
  • Sandals and flip-flops are not suitable
  • Drones, pets, and littering are not allowed; assistance dogs are allowed
  • Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users

Frequently asked questions

How long is the hike?

The out-and-back hike covers 8 miles and typically takes 4 to 6 hours.

How difficult is the Trail?

It is rated strenuous, with rugged, rocky terrain and considerable elevation gain.

What views can I expect?

The route offers views of Mount LeConte, the Ocunaluftee watershed, and Sawteeth Ridge.

What should I bring?

Wear proper hiking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring any personal medication you need.

Are pets allowed?

Pets are not allowed, but assistance dogs are permitted.

How this score is calculated

This tour has no TourTruth score yet: GetYourGuide doesn't show a usable rating for it. It gets a score as soon as a provider lists one.

How the score works
  • Each provider rating is turned into a percentile: the share of that provider's ratings it beats, weighted by review counts.
  • Listings on different providers are combined in proportion to their review counts.
  • Tours with few reviews are pulled toward the average until more reviews come in, so a handful of perfect reviews can't top the list.
  • The result is shown from 0 to 10. Tours without a usable provider rating are not scored.

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