About This Route
The 71-mile GSMNP AT through Tennessee/North Carolina includes Clingmans Dome to Newfound Gap, with lush forests and 6,643-foot high point. Runners love 30-mile Charlies Bunion loops for vert. NPS manages 12 million visitors; permits required overnight.
Safety Considerations
Bears frequent; use bear canisters per NPS. Black bears, wild boars. Dense rhodo hides roots; headlamp mandatory long runs. Flash floods springs; avoid low crossings. Ticks, bees allergies. Heat index soars; electrolyte tabs essential.
Essential Gear
La Sportiva Bushido shoes, Ursack bear bag, Goal Zero Venture charger, Benadryl kit, Nuun tabs.
Emergency Tips
Bear charge: Fight back. Lost: Follow AT blazes south/north.
Safe Smokies running starts here.