The A.T. is 95.7 miles long in North Carolina, but it continues for 224.7 miles along the Tennessee/North Carolina boundary. Hikers encounter the tallest mountains along the Trail, including many exceeding 6,000 feet, as the A.T. ascends to the High Country of the state boundary.
You'll need an advance permit for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as shelter reservations depending on the duration of your trek. All backpackers must remain in approved areas.
