Blue blaze through GSNP

imported
#1

I am considering doing a blue blaze through the Smokies. I’ve already done the AT through there and would like to see a different aspect of the park. Looking at the map, it appears possible to connect a bunch of trails together in order to get from Fontana Dam to Davenport Gap. For the most part, this path follows steams and valleys, with a few stiff climbs up and over ridges and would be somewhat longer then the AT ridge walk.

I figure doing a low land walk would be pretty interesting, with leafs on the trees, a much greater chance of wildlife encounters than up on the ridge and no problems finding water! Although there would be few, if any other hikers, running into horse parties is more likely.

What do you think? Anyone else try this before?

Slo-go’en

#2

Over several trips back in 2002-4, I liked most of the distance from Fontana to Davenport via side trails, only occasionally hitting the ridge, and staying mostly south of the AT. On one trip, I went 2.5 days without seeing a single person. Horses were not too much of a problem as many of the trails were hiker only. A few, however, had been turned into swamps (ok, so I went through while it was raining). The area is really, really beautiful, especially in April and May, when the high country still isn’t in full bloom.

One thing to consider, though, is the difficulty. Because you’re going against the grain of the land, elevation gain and loss is much greater than on the AT. Still, it isn’t that bad and the trails are generally well set up and maintained. If you’ve already done the AT part, I’d follow your own path. If I hike the AT again from the start, this is how I’d do it.

S

#3

When you get close to Davenport Gap, stay south and enjoy the Big Creek area. Abosolutely gorgeous water walk, altough can be a popular area in good weather. Camel Gap Tr off of AT pretty also.

Boquack

#4

Why not hike the BMT. You can hike from the 20-mile Ranger Station (just down the road from Fontana Village) to Davenport Gap. You could start at Springer and take the 300 mile thru-hike of the BMT to Davenport Gap.

Hammock Hanger

#5

Most of those trails that you’re talking about are the BMT . Look for the little green signs on the signpost. The new National Geo maps have the BMT highlighted in yellow.

Hokey Pokey