Tricorner Knob Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Our visit to Tricorner Knob Shelter marked the third night of our backpacking trip. As we arrived at this Appalachian Trail(AT) shelter, it became evident that it was bustling with AT thru-hikers who were embarking on their journey northward. Unfortunately, the shelter and its surrounding camping areas were not able to accommodate the influx of hikers. Space was at a premium, and it felt exceptionally crowded. The terrain posed an additional challenge, as the site was highly sloped. Finding a suitable spot to set up a tent without the constant risk of sliding proved to be a significant challenge. 

While the shelter itself was inviting and well-maintained, it filled up rapidly, even though we had arrived fairly early, around 2 p.m. Those who arrived later faced a struggle to secure a comfortable spot. Some unfortunate campers were left with no choice but to set up their tents near the pit toilet, a less-than-ideal arrangement. 

Speaking of the toilet, it was clear that the facility was not designed to handle the high volume of traffic it receives. It was brimming with waste due to the site's popularity and suffered from inadequate maintenance. To safeguard against bear encounters, bear cables were available and necessary to hang all food overnight. Additionally, there is a water source available at the site. 

Despite the crowded conditions, it was nice to interact with fellow hikers, and most people were friendly and accommodating. However, the noise from so many people made it challenging to sleep in. To ensure we got to our next site early enough to secure a good space, we decided to rise early the next morning. 

Overall, Tricorner Knob Shelter can be a challenging stop for hikers, especially during peak thru-hiker season. While the shelter itself is pleasant, the limited space, sloped terrain, and crowded conditions can make for a less-than-ideal experience. Despite these challenges, it's still a good experience to stay here, and its location at the intersection of multiple trails makes it an ideal stop for hikers. Campers should be prepared for the possibility of overcrowding and limited camping options, and be sure to adhere to the bear safety measures in place.

So my title is a little odd...I’ll explain. Normally thru-hikers get first dibs on shelters...also they stink really bad and shelters are tight. However, in the Smokies you can get a permit backcountry permit and camp outside (very clear on the reservation website) the shelter. They sell 10 permits to do this. Problem is, there isn’t a space for even a two person tent outside this shelter. I had to go 500 feet back up the hill to the horse hitching post to find a good spot. There are a few locations that a one person tent could fit, but certainly not ten.

It’s a tough hike in to this shelter as it sits just below Mt Guyot, one of the highest peaks east of the Mississippi. The privy was clean and the water source was running well. Always fun to hang out with the thru-hikers and hear their stories for a while. No views despite the elevation.

My first shelter experience, and I really enjoyed it. Most times, the people you are huddled with are what make or break a shelter stay, and I was very lucky to have awesome campmates. The shelter was surprisingly clean. The privy was too, shockingly. Water source was very close to the shelter. We had zero issues with bugs or critters bothering us at night. I was also able to get cell/satellite service outside the shelter and up on the AT.

Great half way point between Cosby Shelter and Newfound Gap. Outhouse needs cleaned out though.

The shelter is a classic three-sided AT shelter. Remember that all overnight stays (other than AT thru-hikers) must be reserved through the GSMNP backcountry office or online. Excellent water source a few feet from the shelter.

The area around the shelter is high, rocky, and remote. Expect 10-15 degrees less than the Park headquarters. There are no less than seven peaks over 6k feet an easy hike from the shelter, which is why this is often used as the base camp for folks hiking the southern 6ers challenge.

The site was well kept but during the night I stayed, there was a 450lb black bear as well as a 250 black bear circling the shelter.