The Appalachian Trail crosses the park and follows the ridge of the
Smokies for most of its 71 miles. The eastern portion, from Davenport
Gap at the northeast corner to Newfound Gap on the transmountain
highway, is 31 miles long and follows through an absolute wilderness.
The western portion from Newfound Gap to Fontana Dam just outside
the park, is 40 miles long. Most of the trail is over 5,000 feet in
elevation.
There are 7 trailside shelters and 3 trailside campsites along the
71-mile section of the Appalachian Trail in this park from Davenport
Gap to Newfound Gap (31 miles) and Newfound Gap to Fontana Dam (40
miles). These are nearly equally spaced for 1-day hiking trips.
Shelters are closed on 3 sides and provide simple bunk accommodations
for 6 persons. A fireplace is in front and water is available nearby.
Use of the shelters is normally restricted to 1 night. Camping is
permitted along the trail only at the above points and a camping
permit for each trip is required. (See page 8.) Because of the
scarcity of fuel at these sites, you are advised to carry primus-type
stoves.