The Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail crosses the park and follows the ridge of the Smokies for most of its 71 miles. The eastern portion, from Davenport Gap at the northeast corner to Newfound Gap on the transmountain highway, is 31 miles long and follows through an absolute wilderness. The western portion from Newfound Gap to Fontana Dam just outside the park, is 40 miles long. Most of the trail is over 5,000 feet in elevation.
There are 7 trailside shelters and 3 trailside campsites along the 71-mile section of the Appalachian Trail in this park from Davenport Gap to Newfound Gap (31 miles) and Newfound Gap to Fontana Dam (40 miles). These are nearly equally spaced for 1-day hiking trips. Shelters are closed on 3 sides and provide simple bunk accommodations for 6 persons. A fireplace is in front and water is available nearby. Use of the shelters is normally restricted to 1 night. Camping is permitted along the trail only at the above points and a camping permit for each trip is required. (See page8.) Because of the scarcity of fuel at these sites, you are advised to carry primus-type stoves.