The Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) offers a 300-mile journey through the heart of the Southern Appalachians, offering a unique experience for those seeking a deeper connection with nature. Unlike its more famous neighbor, the Appalachian Trail (AT), the BMT provides a truly wild and remote adventure. The BMTA website has many thru hiking resources The BMTA also recognizes our Thru hikers with a completed hikes registry and free patch and rocker program!
1. The BMT: A Walk on the Wild Side
The BMT is significantly less traveled than the AT, meaning you’ll encounter fewer people and experience a greater sense of solitude. This remoteness, however, also means you need to be more self-sufficient and prepared for the challenges of wilderness travel.
How Remoteness Impacts Your Hike:
- Limited Resources: Resupply points are less frequent, requiring careful planning and potentially longer carries between towns.
- Increased Self-Reliance: You’ll need strong navigation skills, wilderness first-aid knowledge, and the ability to handle unexpected situations independently.
- Enhanced Wilderness Experience: The solitude and lack of crowds allow for a deeper appreciation of nature’s beauty and a more profound connection with the environment.
Minimal Shelters: Unlike the AT, which has shelters spaced throughout its length, the BMT offers very few shelters. Except for one shelter near Blue Ridge, GA (Cherry Log Shelter at mile 50.3), you’ll primarily be camping in designated campsites or practicing dispersed camping where permitted.
- 2. Through-Hiking the BMT
- Time Commitment: Most through-hikers complete the BMT in 3-4 weeks.
- Season: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant temperatures.
- Direction: Most hikers go Northbound (NOBO), starting at Springer Mountain, Georgia. Southbound (SOBO) can also work.
- Permits:
- No permits are required for most of the BMT.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Backcountry permits are required for overnight stays within the park boundaries. These can be obtained online or at visitor centers.
- Maps & Guidebooks: The Benton MacKaye Trail Association (BMTA) offers detailed maps and guidebooks. A GPS device or navigation app is also highly recommended.
3. Resupply Strategies for Through-Hikers
- Understanding Your Needs: Estimate your daily food consumption and plan your resupply points accordingly.
- Mail Drops: Send yourself resupply boxes to towns along the trail.
Best Resupply Points along the BMT:
- Cherry Log, GA (Mile 50)
- Ducktown, TN (Mile 92):
- Unicoi Gap TN/NC Border (Mile 130)
- Fontana Village Resort (Mile 190)
- Bryson City (Mile 230) or Cherokee, NC (Mile 255) .
Tips for Resupply:
- Contact Businesses: Confirm resupply options and hours.
- Plan for Delays: Build in buffer days.
- Carry Extra Food: For emergencies.
4. Section Hiking the BMT: 30-50 Mile Adventures
Section hiking allows you to experience the BMT’s remoteness at your own pace.
- Choose Your Sections: The BMTA website provides detailed information.
- Plan Your Logistics: Arrange transportation to trailheads.
- Popular Sections:
- Springer Mountain to Three Forks: Challenging climbs, scenic views.
- Cohutta Wilderness: Remote and rugged beauty.
- Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock Wilderness: Old-growth forest, diverse terrain.
5. On the Trail
- Pace Yourself: Start with shorter days to adjust.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water.
- Leave No Trace: Minimize your impact.
- Wildlife Awareness: Store food properly.
- Safety First: Hike with a partner or inform someone of your itinerary.
