The Benton MacKaye Trail | 300 miles of solitude, self-reliance, and Southern wilderness
The Benton MacKaye Trail is a ~300-mile long-distance trail running through Georgia, Tennessee, and North Carolina, offering a quieter, more rugged alternative to the Appalachian Trail. Expect remote sections, fewer services, and deep wilderness travel—ideal for hikers seeking solitude without extreme technical demands.
This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Quick Trail Facts
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 300 mi
Elevation Gain: 55,000 ft
Georgia – North Carolina
Average Time: 3–5 Weeks
Permit Required?: false
The Benton MacKaye Trail stretches roughly 300 miles from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to the Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee and North Carolina, traversing some of the most remote terrain in the Southern Appalachians. With approximately 50,000–55,000 feet of elevation gain, the equivalent of climbing Mount Everest 9–10 times, the BMT offers a quieter, more self-reliant long-distance hiking experience than the Appalachian Trail.
Most thru-hikers complete the BMT in 3–5 weeks, though it’s equally suitable for section hikers and experienced backpackers seeking solitude over trail infrastructure.
Southern Appalachians (Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee)
Distance
~300 miles (entire trail)
Terrain
Forested ridgelines, wilderness areas, creek crossings, long climbs, minimal development
What to Expect
The Benton MacKaye Trail (quality thru-hiking reference guide on Benton MacKaye Trail Association) prioritizes wilderness travel over trail culture. Hikers will experience long stretches without road crossings, fewer shelters, and limited town access. The trail winds through national forests and designated wilderness areas, requiring strong planning skills and comfort with self-supported hiking.
Unlike the AT, the BMT avoids ridgeline highways and popular viewpoints in favor of quiet valleys, remote crests, and uninterrupted forest corridors.
Trail experience highlights:
- Cohutta Wilderness
- Big Frog Wilderness
- Fontana Dam
- Smokies-adjacent highlands
- Springer Mountain (southern terminus)
Water Availability
Generally reliable, with frequent streams and springs, especially in Georgia and the Smokies region.
However, long ridge walks and drought-prone summers can create extended dry carries. Water planning matters more here than on the AT.
Climate
- Spring: Cool mornings, wet conditions, possible snow at elevation
- Summer: Hot, humid, heavy vegetation growth
- Fall: Cool, clear, ideal hiking conditions
- Winter: Possible but challenging due to remoteness and limited bailout points
Trail Sections & Resupply Strategy
Springer Mountain → Blue Ridge, GA
Distance: ~80 miles
Terrain: Rolling ridges, forest roads, early climbs
What to Expect
A gentler introduction compared to the AT, but still quieter and less developed. This section tests early logistics and navigation skills.
Resupply Options
- Blue Ridge, GA: Full services, grocery, lodging
- Cherry Log / local shuttles: Limited, shuttle-dependent
Blue Ridge → Fontana Dam, NC
Distance: ~120 miles
Terrain: Cohutta Wilderness, remote ridges, creek valleys
What to Expect
This is the most remote stretch of the entire trail. Expect long food carries, fewer road crossings, and minimal cell service. Strong planning is essential.
Resupply Options
- Tellico Plains, TN (via shuttle): Full services
- Reliance, TN: Limited, shuttle required
- Fontana Village: Small store, lodging
Fontana Dam → Big Creek / Smokies Region
Distance: ~100 miles
Terrain: Steeper climbs, higher elevation ridges
What to Expect
Physically harder terrain but simpler logistics. Cooler temperatures and more defined trail corridors characterize this final section.
Resupply Options
- Fontana Village: Last reliable resupply
- Big Creek / I-40 corridor: Limited services
Trail Town Resupply Reality
- Expect 4–6 day food carries
- Mail drops are common, but optional
- Shuttles are frequently required
- Few trail towns compared to the AT
- No shelter-based hiking strategy, tent or hammock required
Who the BMT Is Best For
✔ Hikers seeking solitude and wilderness immersion
✔ AT veterans wanting a less crowded, more demanding experience
✔ Well-prepared first-time thru-hikers comfortable with planning
✘ Not ideal for hikers relying on frequent towns, shelters, or social trail life
Planning Notes
Permits Required:
- None for the trail itself
- Local backcountry regulations apply in some areas
Navigation:
Best Direction:
- Northbound (GA → TN/NC): Most common
- Southbound: Possible, quieter, but logistically similar
Seasonal Strategy:
- Spring: Wet, cool, lush growth
- Summer: Heat, bugs, overgrowth