The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail winds through Bryson City and Swain County, and can be…

The Appalachian Trail winds through Bryson City and Swain County, and can be accessed at several points throughout the area, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Appalachian Trail

Explore the Most Famous Hiking Path in the World

Drawing more than 3 million visitors each year, the Appalachian National Scenic Trail — more commonly known as the Appalachian Trail or “the A.T.” — is a unit of the National Park System. Fully connected in 1937, the A.T. stretches from its northern terminus at Katahdin, Maine, to its southern terminus at Springer Mountain, Georgia. At more than 2,190 miles in length, the A.T. is the world’s longest hiking-only footpath.

Explore the A.T. section hikes near Bryson City and within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Reconnect with nature, escape the stress of city life, meet new people or experience a simpler life.

Appalachian Trail Section Hikes Near Bryson City

Appalachian Trail Crossing at the NOC

Did you know that when you stand on the Founder's Bridge at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), you are standing on the Appalachian Trail? Hike to the north, uphill past the cabins and bunkhouses, and head another 2,062 miles following the…

Cheoah Bald Hike

Cheoah Bald stands at 5062 feet and is traversed by the Appalachian Trail. The main attraction is the appealing grassy campsite on the south side, perched above the vast grassy bald with an expansive southern view. Cheoah Bald towers nearly…

Hike Fontana Dam to Clingmans Dome

This is a one-way trail between Fontana Dam and Clingmans Dome that can be hiked in either direction, so make sure to arrange for a hiking shuttle or plan a way to get back to your car,. Parking at Fontana Dam is plentiful, and there are…

Hike Newfound Gap to Charlies Bunion

This Appalachian Trail section hike is an 8 mile round trip hike, out and back, and rated as moderate. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views along this hike to a picturesque stone outcrop known as Charlies Bunion. To get to the trailhead, drive…

Hike Newfound Gap to Clingmans Dome

The Appalachian Trail section hike is 8.3 miles one way, or as a 16,6 mile out and back trail. Generally considered a challenging route, it takes an average of 9-10 hours to complete as an out and back hike. For the one-way hike, there are…

Hike to Shuckstack Fire Tower

This section hike of the Appalachian Trail originates at Fontana Dam. As you cross the dam, scan the mountains towards the north and you should be able to make out the Shuckstack Fire Tower in the distance. Almost immediately after crossing…

Hike to Wesser Bald Lookout Tower

Wesser Bald offers outstanding views from its summit, thanks to a metal fire lookout tower and wooden observation deck at the top. Hike 2.8 miles round trip to the Wesser Bald Tower on the Appalachian Trail, climbing to exceptionally…

Hike Wesser to Stecoah Gap

This is a 13.6 miles one way Appalachian Trail section hike that takes an average of 10-11 hours and is rated strenuous. From the Nantahala River at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, a steep 8-mile uphill climb takes you to Cheoah Bald, with a…

Stecoah Gap to Fontana Dam

This Appalachian Trail section hike is a 15.8 mile span to Fontana Dam near the border of the Great Smoky Mountains. Make sure to arrange for a shuttle or plan a way to get back to your car, as this is a one-way hike.It can be hiked in one…

Map of the Appalachian Trail Section Near Bryson City and the Great Smoky Mountains:

Appalachian Trail Map

Appalachian Trail - Hiker Shuttles Near Bryson City

  • 169 Main Street
  • (828) 342-6444

On top of having the best gear for your outdoor adventure, we are happy to be able to offer a hiker shuttle service to all those wanting to explore the Great Smoky Mountains and the surrounding areas! Including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pisgah National Forest…

  • (828) 569-6699

Call for availability – 828-569-6699. We offer a Great Smoky Mountains Hiker Shuttle near Bryson City, North Carolina for Appalachian Trail Hikers and more. We can carry up to 7 guests. If there are more than 7, please contact us for arrangements and we will work on…

  • 322 Jacobs Road
  • (828) 200-1447

We are a hiker shuttle company for hikers in western North Carolina, Section 1 of the Appalachian Trail. We shuttle hikers to all accessible gaps and trailheads. We are knowledgeable, prompt, courteous and pet friendly. We also offer daily pick-ups and drop-offs, and shuttles to…