Appalachian Trail #5 (Davenport Gap to Nolichucky River)

The Appalachian Trail from Davenport Gap to the Nolichucky River covers roughly 100 miles through western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee and is considered a challenging but rewarding section of the southern A.T.  This section leaves the Great Smoky Mountains at Davenport Gap then quickly climbs onto forested ridges and open highlands – offering a classic mix of long ascents, descents, and ridge walking. This stretch is known for its variety—quiet hardwood forests, narrow ridgelines, and expansive mountain views which makes it popular with both section hikers and thru-hikers.

Major highlights in this section include Max Patch, a famous grassy bald with sweeping 360-degree views, and the welcoming trail town of Hot Springs, North Carolina where the A.T. runs directly through town and provides an ideal resupply point. North of Hot Springs, hikers cross rugged terrain over peaks like Rich Mountain and Big Bald before descending toward the dramatic gorge of the Nolichucky River near Erwin, Tennessee. The section of the A.T. ends with a steep descent to the Nolichucky River, a memorable transition point at the Nantahala Outdoor Center on the Appalachian Trail near Erwin, Tennessee.