Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hiking and Backpacking Travel Guide

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.

Hiking Overview: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Smokies are crisscrossed by some 900 miles of footpathwith so much trail mileage, it's no wonder visitors are often daunted as to what particular trail to take. But have no fear, GORP is here: We'll help you sort through all the options and find the day-hikes of your dreams. Read More

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2 Questions | 2 Answers

Where to go to play in snow? I want to take my children to the smoky mountains, just to play in snow! We live down south and we don't get any snow. We don't want to ski, just enjoy the cold and snow. Any ideas?
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IVE NEVER BEEN THERE? what are the names of the campgrounds that has vac. the9th through the approx. the13th? we want to come from the smokies and camp there(Desota state) on the way home, we are from boaz.We have camped there before and it is beautiful, with the trees and falls around.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hiking and Backpacking Travel Guide

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hiking and Backpacking Travel Guide

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hiking and Backpacking Travel Tips

Hiking Overview: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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Cataloochee Ranch

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Fontana Village Resort

Tsali Recreation Area Campground

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