Great Smoky Mountains National Park Guide: Hiking and Backpacking
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Highlights
- Explore the top hiking and backpacking destination in the Southeast. The Smokies boast 900 miles of trails, 100 backcountry campsites, and a climate suitable for trekking year-round.
- Steer clear of summer traffic—foot traffic that is—on the 69-mile section of the Appalachian Trail that crosses the high-country spine of the park, rugged terrain, and trail shelters, all accompanied by mind-blowing views.
- Take a water shuttle on Fontana Lake to the mouth of Hazel Creek, a large and historic valley full of settler relics and good trout fishing. Numerous spur trails offer good day loops from backcountry campsites.
- Twentymile Ranger Station is a good jumping-off point for hikers headed to Gregory Bald, a mile-high meadow with views. Watch out for bears at Sheep Pen Gap campsite, just below Gregory Bald.
- Witness nature at its finest on Cataloochee trails that wind past noble elk, rare spruce-fir forest, and tumbling rock streams.
- Tour the down-low homesites of Cosby, and then trek to one of the many connector trails leading to high country. Two great paths are the rugged Snake Den Trail and the steep Maddron Bald Trail, which brims with great views and ecotones.
By Travel Expert:
Johnny Molloy
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