Appalachian Trail access points | Johnson City

Here is a detailed listing of the Appalachian Trail access points in Tennessee (and nearby border areas), described without a table for clarity and continuity, listed from south to north:

Fontana Dam (Southern Entrance to the Smokies)

Located just across the Tennessee-North Carolina line, Fontana Dam serves as the southern gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a major access point with trailhead parking, a visitor center, and nearby amenities in Fontana Village. This is where many thru-hikers begin their Smokies section.

Clingmans Dome

This is the highest point on the entire Appalachian Trail at 6,643 feet. Accessed by Clingmans Dome Road from U.S. 441 (Newfound Gap Road), the paved trail from the parking lot leads to the observation tower. The AT crosses nearby, and it's a frequent start point for scenic day hikes in high-elevation spruce-fir forests.

Newfound Gap

Situated on U.S. 441 between Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina, this heavily used trail access has large parking areas and bathrooms. From here, hikers can head north or south on the AT through the Smokies, with excellent views and well-maintained paths.

Davenport Gap

This marks the northern exit point of the Appalachian Trail from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s accessed from Interstate 40 via Waterville Road. This area is quieter and more remote, commonly used by thru-hikers finishing or entering the park.

Max Patch (North Carolina side)

Though technically in North Carolina, Max Patch is very close to the Tennessee line. It's a wide, grassy bald that’s a favorite for panoramic views, picnicking, and star gazing. Access is via gravel roads from the Harmon Den or Del Rio areas.

Hot Springs, North Carolina

The trail runs right through the downtown of Hot Springs, making it unique. It's just southeast of Tennessee and is one of the easiest spots to resupply or start a section hike. Hikers can walk straight from cafes to the trail.

Sam’s Gap

This is a convenient and popular access point along Interstate 26 near Flag Pond, Tennessee. It features paved parking and is used by section hikers and thru-hikers alike. From here, the trail heads up to Big Bald and along a scenic ridge.

Indian Grave Gap

Near the town of Erwin, this access point leads up to the Beauty Spot, a grassy bald with sweeping views. It’s a favorite among locals for short hikes. Reached via Rock Creek Road off TN-395, the trail here quickly ascends to high elevation viewpoints.

Iron Mountain Gap

Between Erwin and Roan Mountain, Iron Mountain Gap sits at the border of Unicoi and Carter counties. This wooded, remote trailhead offers entry into long, forested stretches of the AT, with moderate terrain and few crowds.

Carver’s Gap

One of the most popular and breathtaking trail access points in the state, Carver’s Gap straddles the Tennessee–North Carolina border at the base of Roan Mountain. From here, hikers cross the open grassy balds of Round Bald, Jane Bald, and Grassy Ridge Bald. This is an iconic hike, often ranked among the best in the eastern U.S.

Hughes Gap

Located south of Roan Mountain, Hughes Gap Road climbs steeply to the trailhead. The trail from here goes up to Roan High Knob and the old Cloudland Hotel site. The area is heavily wooded and best suited for experienced hikers.

U.S. 19E (Roan Mountain / Elk Park area)

This is a major highway crossing near Roan Mountain State Park. It’s well-marked, with trailhead parking just off the road. Hikers can go south toward Hump Mountain or north toward Hampton and Watauga Lake. The climb to Hump Mountain is one of the most scenic in the region.

Dennis Cove Road (near Hampton)

This trailhead is popular for accessing Laurel Falls, a beautiful 40-foot waterfall right on the AT. It’s reached via Dennis Cove Road off US-321. The area is scenic but rugged, with rocky sections and narrow gorges.

Watauga Lake / U.S. 321

Near Hampton, this access point skirts the edge of Watauga Lake and leads to dramatic ridge walks above the water. Trailheads are found off U.S. 321, with good views and overnight spots like Vandeventer Shelter offering lake panoramas.

Cross Mountain (TN-91)

Situated between Elizabethton and Shady Valley, this is a high-elevation gap accessible via TN-91. The trail crosses pastureland with open skies, providing gentle terrain and sweeping views. The wide trailhead is suitable for day hikes and shuttle drops.

Double Springs / US 421 (Holston Mountain region)

Located near Holston Mountain and Shady Valley, this lesser-used access point connects hikers to remote sections of Iron Mountain Ridge. It is ideal for backpackers seeking solitude and forested scenery.

Damascus, Virginia

Though technically outside Tennessee, Damascus is the next major town north of the Tennessee section and serves as a major stop for resupply, rest, and gear. The town hosts the annual Trail Days festival and is a traditional milestone for northbound hikers.

Each of these access points offers a unique Appalachian Trail experience, whether you’re seeking high-elevation balds, remote forests, waterfalls, or convenient town access. Tennessee's portion of the AT is especially prized for its biodiversity, long scenic ridgelines, and combination of open meadows and deep woodlands.