The Jump Off via The Appalachian Trail

The hike to the beautiful location known as The Jump Off in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park begins at Newfound Gap on the North Carolina and Tennessee state line. Newfound Gap is also the location of Franklin D. Rooseveltas dedication of the park in 1940. The Appalachian Trail is 2,192 miles long, covers 14 states, is touched by 3 million people every year, and is the longest hiking-only trail in the world. On this adventure, youall be covering just 2.7 miles of the trail. Along the first stretch of your journey to The Jump Off, youall have a chance to take in stunning views of the Smokies, wildflowers, rock formations, and most likely numerous hikers out exploring the mountains. When hiking in the area, be sure to check not only the weather forecast for Newfound Gap but road closures in the park. The upper elevations of the Smokies have seen snow as early as October and even 6 inches of snow in May. If youare visiting the southern Appalachians and The Jump Off in the summer months, this hike is a fantastic way to escape the heat and humidity! Regardless of the season, the hike is a wonderful experience on the Appalachian Trail! Once you finish up the 2.7 miles on the AT, youall come to the junction with the Boulevard Trail. Take a left onto the Boulevard Trail, and within a few steps youall see a sign pointing to a side trail that will lead to your destination. The side trail is not maintained by the park service or marked with blazes, but it is easy to follow. Upon reaching The Jump Off, you will immediately see how it got its name! Spend some time taking in the views as well as the solitude, then head back to the Boulevard Trail. Once you reach the end of The Jump Off Trail, the destiny of your day is in your hands! You have the option to climb to Mount LeConte, go out and soak up the views from Charlies Bunion, or take the Appalachian Trail back to the Newfound Gap parking area. Just remember that one adventure on the Appalachian Trail only feeds the desire to experience more! Happy Hiking!