Solo Appalachian Trail Traverse
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Fontana Dam, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
DATE
Aug 16, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Great Smoky Mountains Traverse
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 5 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~39 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: forest
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): ±8,000 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Fontana Dam Trailhead, NC to Clingmans Dome Trailhead, TN
- GPS coordinates: Start: 35.4465, -83.8113; End: 35.5629, -83.4985
- Permits: Required permits can be obtained through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website.
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DAY 1: Fontana Dam Trailhead, NC to Mollies Ridge Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 11 miles, +2,800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Steady climb through dense forest
- Notable features or side quests: Views of Fontana Lake
- Key water sources: Springs near Mollies Ridge Shelter
- Campsite location: Mollies Ridge Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Black bear activity common; store food properly
- Trail tip: Start early to make the most of cooler morning temperatures
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DAY 2: Mollies Ridge Shelter to Derrick Knob Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +1,800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Forested ridges with occasional clearings
- Notable features or side quests: Russell Field
- Key water sources: Springs near shelters
- Campsite location: Derrick Knob Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay on marked trails to avoid encounters with wildlife
- Trail tip: Monitor your pace and hydrate regularly
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DAY 3: Derrick Knob Shelter to Silers Bald Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 7 miles, +1,500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Forest with moderate ascents
- Notable features or side quests: Silers Bald
- Key water sources: Springs near Silers Bald Shelter
- Campsite location: Silers Bald Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear canister use enforced
- Trail tip: Use trekking poles to ease the uphill climbs
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DAY 4: Silers Bald Shelter to Mount Collins Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 5 miles, +1,000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Gradual ascent through forest
- Notable features or side quests: Fantastic views from Silers Bald
- Key water sources: Springs near Mount Collins Shelter
- Campsite location: Mount Collins Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Be weather-aware on open ridgelines
- Trail tip: Prepare for cooler temps at higher elevations
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DAY 5: Mount Collins Shelter to Clingmans Dome Trailhead, TN
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 4 miles, +900 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Final ascent with breathtaking vistas
- Notable features or side quests: Observation tower at Clingmans Dome
- Key water sources: Limited; fill up prior at Mount Collins
- Campsite location: Not applicable
- Wildlife or safety notes: Crowds increase near Clingmans Dome
- Trail tip: Enjoy the final push and take time for photos
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Mollies Ridge Shelter (4,600 ft), Derrick Knob Shelter (4,800 ft), Silers Bald Shelter (5,470 ft), Mount Collins Shelter (5,860 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Fires only in designated fire rings
- Bear safety and food storage: Use provided bear cables
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Clingmans Dome
- Noise level or solitude factor: Quiet outside peak season
- Nearest water source: Springs located near each shelter
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 50°F-70°F in August
- Sun exposure: Moderate with shaded sections
- Acclimatization tips: Stay hydrated and take breaks
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
- Navigation tools (map, compass)
- Water filtration system
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches
- Pocket knife
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Shelter system (tent, tarp)
- Insulating layers
- Nutrition/snacks (high-calorie options)
Pro tips: Opt for lightweight gear to manage pack weight; bring a bear canister
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Andrews Bald
- Photo-worthy moments: Atop Clingmans Dome
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Local BBQ in Gatlinburg, TN
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Early start, early camp
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3,000-4,000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters per day
- Recommended pack weight range: 20-30 lbs
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Prepare accordingly and respect all wilderness guidelines.
Your expedition awaits, Christopher Arace.
Missions: Field Debriefs
Every mission here has been completed, but the terrain still speaks. Proceed with respect.
