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Smokies Hike Shows Off Views Of Appalachian Trail And Work Of Ridge Runners

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By NPT Staff - May 24th, 2017

Charlies Bunion is the destination of a June hike organized by the Friends of the Smokies/NPS

The Appalachian Trail, which runs for more than 71 miles through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, showcases world-famous views, and helpers known as Ridge Runners keep visitors safe and informed while maintaining the popular trail.

Both the views and the work of the Ridge Runners will be featured in a hike on June 13 organized by the Friends of the Smokies. The 8-mile out-and-back trek will gain 1,650 feet in elevation en route to an iconic stone outcropping known as Charlies Bunion.

Smokies enthusiast Steve Winchester will lead the hike.

“I especially enjoy the hike to Charlies Bunion because of the trail we use to get there. Not only is this trail central to the GSMNP, it is a key section of the Appalachian Trail through the park,” said Mr. Winchester. “It is also one of the highest-elevation trails we will visit on the Classic Hike series, providing us an outstanding view of the unique ecosystem.”

Each year, Great Smoky Mountains recruits individuals called Ridge Runners, who provide a presence on the Appalachian Trail from March through October. They provide visitor information, trail maintenance, keep up composting privies, report on conditions of the trail and shelters, assist with emergencies, advise hikers on food storage, and relay real-time information regarding possible problem bears, among many other responsibilities.

Meeting locations for the daylong excursion will be in Asheville, Waynesville, and at the trailhead. Visit the Friends of the Smokies website to register for any Classic Hike of the Smokies.

Monthly guided day hikes in the Classic Hikes series are $20 for members. New and renewing members may join Friends of the Smokies and hike for $35. Donations benefit Friends of the Smokies’ Trails Forever program, which funds a skilled trail crew to work on high-use and high-priority trails in the park, including the recently restored Alum Cave Trail, Chimney Tops Trail, and Forney Ridge Trail.

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