Summary

This AT hike in Tennessee will be 9 miles in length will be mostly down hill. Starting at Beauty Spot at an elevation of 4427 feet and ending at Nolichucky Gorge Campground at an elevation of 1700 feet.

At the beginning of the hike there will be views of the mountians in NC to the south. At 1.3 miles into the hike we will come into a clearing with blackberries and Catawba rhododendren and a view of Erwin nestled between the two ridges. As we desend the trail becomes somewhat rocky. About 3.5 miles into the hike we will come upon a gap with a grassy campsite and other trails. From here we will continue our desent until we reach Curley Maple Gap Shelter ( 6 mile mark), where we shall take a rest. The shelter is at an elevation of 3000 feet.

As we desend further we will be views of the Nolichucky River. The hikes ends at the river and a campground and rafting center.

This will be a one-way hike and will require an auto shuttle. Plan on spending 5 hours on the trail. This is also a clothing optional hike as we practice for the hike on the Summer Solstice (National Naked Hiking Day).

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

We will be meeting in Erwin, Tennessee for this hike.  The meeting place will be the Hardee's restaurant in Erwin. The addrees and phone number are 1127 North Main Street and (423) 743-5050. 

There is inexpensive accamodations at the Super 8 Hotel in Erwin. 

We shall be leaving the Hardee's at 8:00 AM sharp for the trailheads. Plan to arrive earlier if you are going to have breakfast there.