Charlie’s Bunion is a popular hiking destination located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina in the southeastern United States. The trail leading to Charlie’s Bunion is a challenging but rewarding hike that takes visitors through some of the park’s most spectacular scenery.

The trail to Charlie’s Bunion begins at the Newfound Gap parking lot on the Tennessee-North Carolina border. From there, hikers follow the Appalachian Trail for 4 miles (6.4 km) to reach the bunion itself. The trail is well-maintained but steep, with a total elevation gain of over 1800 ft.

The bunion itself is a rocky outcrop that juts out from the side of the mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The name “Charlie’s Bunion” is said to come from Charlie Conner, a local hiker who developed a bunion on his foot after a long hike. The formation of the rock outcrop is believed to have been caused by a combination of geological forces and erosion.

One of the highlights of the hike to Charlie’s Bunion is the stunning panoramic views that hikers are treated to along the way. The trail passes through a diverse range of ecosystems, including dense forests, rocky ridges, and high-altitude meadows. Along the way, hikers are likely to spot a variety of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and birds of prey.

The Appalachian Trail is a popular destination for long-distance hikers, who may spend several months hiking the entire 2,200-mile (3,500-km) trail from Georgia to Maine. Many of these hikers pass through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on their journey, and Charlie’s Bunion is a favorite stop along the way.

The trail to Charlie’s Bunion can be challenging, particularly for novice hikers or those who are not used to hiking at high altitude. It is important to come prepared with proper hiking gear, including sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and warm clothing, as temperatures at high altitude can be much colder than at lower elevations.