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Appalachian National Scenic Trail
Stretching over 14 states and crossing more than 60 federal, state, and local parks and forests, more than 150 miles of The Appalachian National Scenic Trail traverse the Cherokee National Forest south of the Virginia border. High-elevation grassy “balds” grace the trail here. The trail offers views of some of the state's most diverse and stunning ecosystems as it continues to meander along the Tennessee-North Carolina border’s mountaintops, including the Iron Mountains, Roan Mountain, Unaka Mountains, and the Bald Mountain Recreation Zones. The Appalachian Trail inspires courage and endurance and promises to plant the seed of adventure in the heart of all it's visitors.
Appalachian Trail Limits of Stay
The U.S. Forest Service has established new limits of stay regulations at all Appalachian National Scenic Trail (Appalachian Trail) shelters, as well as one campsite and two overnight sites within the southern region. Overnight stays at all of the southern region Appalachian Trail shelters, Davis Path Overnight Site, Davis Farm Overnight Site, and Wayah Bald Shelter Camp are now limited to three days within a 30-day period.
For more detailed information about this regulation, refer to:
Get more maps and GIS data from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
If you're looking for information to help you plan a long distance hike, here's a good overview from the Appalachian Trail Conservancy.
General Information
General Notes:Guidebooks and maps: Appalachian Trail Guide to Tennessee and North Carolina is the ATC’s official guidebook. Weatherproof A.T. maps, USGS topographic maps and other publications are available for sale at Ranger Stations, local retail outlets and by mail from ATC.
Trail management is coordinated through the Appalachian Trail Conference with federal land management agencies and other partners. Volunteers from local trail clubs provide most of the trail maintenance.
Volunteer Trail Maintaining Club Websites:
Tennessee Eastman Hiking Club: www.tehcc.org
Carolina Mountain Club: www.carolinamtnclub.com
Accessibility:
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail (A.T.) is open. Trail shelters located in the Cherokee National Forest are available. Hikers are advised to bring a personal tent and face coverings. Shelters might not be frequently maintained at all locations. Dispersed camping is also available. Not all privies are open or maintained. Guidance is available on the Appalachian Trail Conservancy (ATC) website for trip planning, hiking safety and COVID-19 precautions. (updated 4/21/2021)
Activities
Day Hiking
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail accesses some of the most beautiful places in the Cherokee National Forest. Below are some of those highlights that are available to those just out for a stroll.
General Info:
AccessibilityGeneral Notes
Trail management is coordinated through the Appalachian Trail Conference with federal land management agencies and other partners.
Backpacking
For those looking for backpacking loops, the AT can be used as a backbone that connects multiple trails to create overnight experiences. below are some examples of those loops.