Solo Traverse in Great Smokies
CATEGORY
Traverse
SEASON
Summer
LOCATION
Fontana Dam, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
DATE
Aug 16, 2025
Expedition Itinerary: Appalachian Traverse
Primary Objective: end-to-end traverse
Trip Duration: 6 days
Total Estimated Mileage: ~70 miles
Experience Level: advanced
Terrain Type: forested mountains
- Cumulative elevation gain/loss (ft): 11,400 ft
- Start and end trailhead: Fontana Dam Trailhead, NC to Clingmans Dome Trailhead, TN
- GPS coordinates: 35.4534, -83.8118 (Fontana Dam) / 35.5629, -83.4983 (Clingmans Dome)
- Permits: Obtain through Great Smoky Mountains National Park website
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DAY 1: Fontana Dam to Mollies Ridge Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +3,500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Steady climb through dense forests
- Notable features or side quests: Fontana Lake views
- Key water sources: Nearby streams along the trail
- Campsite location: Mollies Ridge Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Bear activity; use provided bear cables
- Trail tip: Start early to manage the climb comfortably
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DAY 2: Mollies Ridge Shelter to Derrick Knob Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 12 miles, +2,800 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Ridgewalk with occasional steep sections
- Notable features or side quests: Views of Cades Cove
- Key water sources: Springs near the trail
- Campsite location: Derrick Knob Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Watch for snakes on warm rocks
- Trail tip: Use trekking poles for steep sections
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DAY 3: Derrick Knob Shelter to Silers Bald Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 9 miles, +1,500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Rolling climbs along the ridgeline
- Notable features or side quests: Scenic vistas on Silers Bald
- Key water sources: Shelter spring
- Campsite location: Silers Bald Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Elevated bear activity
- Trail tip: Refill water at every opportunity
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DAY 4: Silers Bald Shelter to Double Spring Gap Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 8 miles, +1,000 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Moderately challenging with forested areas
- Notable features or side quests: Sunrise at Silers Bald
- Key water sources: Near the shelter
- Campsite location: Double Spring Gap Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: Use bear cables for food storage
- Trail tip: Rest partway through the day to recharge
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DAY 5: Double Spring Gap Shelter to Mt. Collins Shelter
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 10 miles, +2,100 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Gradual climb with dense forest cover
- Notable features or side quests: Andrews Bald detour
- Key water sources: Stream crossings
- Campsite location: Mt. Collins Shelter
- Wildlife or safety notes: High altitude adjustments
- Trail tip: Layer clothing for cooler evening temps
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DAY 6: Mt. Collins Shelter to Clingmans Dome
- Distance and elevation gain/loss: 2 miles, +500 ft
- Primary trail(s) used: Appalachian Trail
- Terrain description: Final ascent to the dome
- Notable features or side quests: Observation tower views
- Key water sources: Shelter vicinity
- Campsite location: N/A (day hike to endpoint)
- Wildlife or safety notes: Stay on marked trails
- Trail tip: Arrive early for fewer crowds
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CAMPSITE INTEL
- Camp names and elevation: Mollies Ridge Shelter (4,600 ft), Derrick Knob Shelter (4,850 ft), Silers Bald Shelter (5,000 ft), Double Spring Gap Shelter (5,500 ft), Mt. Collins Shelter (5,935 ft)
- Fire restrictions: Fires allowed at designated sites
- Bear safety and food storage: Use bear cables
- Best views (sunrise/sunset): Silers Bald, Clingmans Dome
- Noise level or solitude factor: Moderate; popular shelters
- Nearest water source: Springs near shelters
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WEATHER & ALTITUDE NOTES
- Typical temps: 60-80°F
- Sun exposure: Moderate; mix of canopy and open areas
- Acclimatization tips: Pace yourself and hydrate frequently
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GEAR CHECKLIST (10 ESSENTIAL ITEMS)
List tailored to terrain and season
- 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: Bring lightweight rain gear; pack an extra pair of dry socks
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OPTIONAL UPGRADES
- Scenic side trips: Andrews Bald
- Photo-worthy moments: Clingmans Dome summit
- Post-hike food or reward suggestion: Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg
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FINAL BRIEF SUMMARY
- Trail hours per day: 6-8 hours
- Wake/sleep rhythm: Dawn to dusk
- Estimated calories burned per day: 3,000 calories
- Water needed per person: 3-4 liters
- Recommended pack weight range: 25-30 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.
