Characterized by a picturesque steep-sided outcrop just beneath the summit, Charlies Bunion offers expansive, breathtaking mountain views. Leave the traffic noise and hubbub behind and walk along the narrow ridge crest tunneling through deep conifers to reach this bare-rock mountain peak, which rises 1,696 m (5,565 ft) above sea level. Wear sturdy shoes and watch your footing. In addition to 488 m (1,600 ft) elevation change, plenty of roots, jagged rocks, and steep drop-offs make this hike quite challenging. If you feel like resting on your way up or back down, stop at the Icewater shelter. Work out when and for how long to visit Charlies Bunion and other Great Smoky Mountains National Park attractions using our handy Great Smoky Mountains National Park day trip planning tool.
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Charlies Bunion Reviews
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The view at the top was well worth the 2.5 hours hike up. Trail was well marked. Surprisingly good cell service along most of trail too lol. We even saw a bear on our way back down. I’m a pretty... more »
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The views are spectacular, I highly recommend this hike. It took us 2 hours and 45 to get to the top. more »
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Even with it being so foggy we could barely see anything it was still one of our favorite hikes we've ever done in the Smoky Mountains. I can't wait to do it again!
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One of my favorite smoky mountain hikes. Absolutely gorgeous hike the entire way to the bunion. Get their early on the morning because if not you will be waiting in line to check it out.
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