Charlies Bunion via Appalachian TrailModerate

Charlies Bunion, part of the western wing of the Sawteeth, is a bare rock face at 5,565' with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. Following the Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap, you can reach the vantage point with about an 8 mile roundtrip hike. Head northeast on the AT toward Icewater Spring.

This hike travels to rock crags along the state-line ridge, the main crest of the Smoky Mountains. By taking the AT trailhead in the corner of the Newfound Gap parking area, this segment will lead you to the rock outcropping, Charlie’s Bunion. Along the way you'll pass the crossings for Sweat Heifer Creek Trail and The Boulevard Trail, which leads up to Mount LeConte.

The first mile of this part of the trail gradually ascends about 300 feet over rocky terrain and typical Appalachian Trail steps. Depending on the time of year, the trail tends to be covered with trees.

You'll find a backcountry shelter, one of the nicer structures along this route, for Appalachian Trail hikers at Icewater Spring. Up to 12 people can sleep at the shelter with a permit and reservation from the National Park Service.