4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains

Its no wonder why so many people are drawn to backpacking. Any preference? When approaching the trailhead, your best chance for a variety of food and beverage before embarking is definitely Bryson City, North Carolina, although the Wildwood Grill in the Fontana Village Resort and Marina serves a mean burger and an inexpensive glass of beer. it's hard to go wrong with any four days in the park. The backcountry campsites on the other hand have wonderful solitude, are often nestled near creeks, and in general offer a cleaner, much more authentic and rewarding wilderness experience. Most important to your enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level. There are two popular big hikes here. 5. CAR RENTALS Hiking boots should be next on your list. ), All meals are prepared by your guide! So lets work together and all have a great time enjoying our beautiful GSMNP! The John Muir Trail is one of the most iconic The hike begins at Byers Lake Trailhead and winds through forests, meadows, and tundra before reaching an elevation of 3,400 feet. REI and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. April-May: Tents. When the route crosses through the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont (an educational facility that runs residential programs for school-aged children) a sharp-eyed hiker might spot some vending machines that are open to the public. How many miles per day are we talking about? Email: ssmtoffice@gmail.com / ssmtpmu@gmail.com / ssmtjobs@gmail.com You can also spot wildlife such as moose, bears, caribou, and marmots from the ridge. See, Roundtrip transportation from your hotel in Asheville, North Carolina to the trailhead and back, Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and communication device (InReach Explorer or satellite phone), Mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to Great Smoky Mountains NP. Tommy was sure to take adequate breaks on the hikes and maximize our comfort. Approximately 6-10milesDay 3 is a big day as we climb a rocky and steep section but only to be rewarded with a spectacular sense of accomplishment and view of Fontana Lake. Avoid the stress of forgetting camping and hiking essentials with our handy guide. His mission is to inspire others to get out there and experience nature in all its glory. The shelters particularly along the popular Appalachian Trail are very crowded and often plagued by rodent infestations and other undesireable qualities. Lunches are usually peanut butter and jelly or tuna packets and crackers! Asheville has an airport served by Allegiant Air, Delta, United, and US Airways.

The trail spans roughly 24 miles and takes two to three days to complete; however, you can take shorter day hikes instead if you wish. Summer can be quite humid with daytime temperatures into the 90s. Mileage: varies between 3-11 miles depending on specific route with +/- 1,500-3,000' elevation change. Be advised that permits are required by the NPS for all overnight stays in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Begin your adventure by arriving at the Newfound Gap parking lot - before first light. Get a FREE Camping & Hiking Packing List! Now, she finds herself in the Smokies and enjoys sharing LNT principles, along with identifying the local flora and fauna. After getting settled in camp you can relax by the creek or enjoy an afternoon hike along one of the stunning creeks flowing near camp. Guides are required to take 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down timeetc. Webare tortillas bad for abs. (Route and statistics may very due to availability of backcountry sites and weather. Mileage: varies between 3 5.5 miles depending on specific route with +/- 1,500-3,000' elevation change. Still, we comfortably completed this route with only two liters of water storage capacity. WebTrails in the directory below are grouped by general location within the Great Smoky Mountains, such as hiking trails near Gatlinburg or Cades Cove. Webj bowers construction owner // 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park 127-mile loop is a moderately ambitious route made of seven or eight different trails through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Dont expect wet socks to dry out, even if you put them on the back of your pack for a day. Most scenic route from Gatlinburg TN down to Savannah GA? Permits: In order to backcountry camp in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, youll need both a reservation and a permit for each campsite. Use particular caution when fording creeks, especially during the spring and early summer. 999 cigarettes product of mr same / redassedbaboon hacked games From high peaks to low valleys, the Appalachian Trail (AT) brings promised adventure and amazing stories. This natural wonder stretches a whopping 277 miles long and 18 miles wide. Growing up in California Meagan spent much of her free time backpacking in the Sierras. 1 Try Rafting Down The Little Pigeon River. The Alum Cave trailhead is on Newfound Gap Road, 8 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Earn a $100 REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days from account opening. How much elevation gain? I would take this trip again and again.A+++++++, What a great experience.I will summarize this experience as life changing Amazing trip! Use this guide to hiking backpacks to find what you need. WebThere is a fire tower with sweeping views of the region and great camp spots at the summit. Also a number of taxis are usually available on the curb in the Arrivals area. Nestled in the heart of a forest of ponderosa pine, juniper, and Douglas fir, this natural hot springs pool is an oasis for nature lovers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In short, you can count on getting rained on, no matter what time of year you do this hike. The valley is a welcomed environment with pristine rivers and vegetation. After deciding on a location, youll need to consider your backpack. Your email address will not be published. Dinner Included. We plan to hike for 6-10 hours per day most days on steep, rocky, rooty, wet, uneven and sometimes exposed terrain. The Southern Appalachians have the most varieties of salamanders of any ecosystem in the world, and you are sure to see a few on your hike. The EEC exist for your own safety and the safety and enjoyment of all participants. For a suggested packing list, see the link below: (Keep in mind that this will be a heavy pack, and over loading can make for a less than comfy trip for you. Why? And as you might expect from an area with such rainfall, youll be fording a lot. We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Great Smoky Mountains. A smaller 5 liter size and larger 10 liter will do.

When camping at a campsite with shelters (similar to what youd find on the Appalachian Trail), you must stay in the shelter. Web4-5 day loop, Smoky Mountains Recommendations Looking to do a 4-5 day loop of The trail runs from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney and spans 211 miles through some of Californias most beautiful wilderness areas, including Sequoia National Park and Ansel Adams Wilderness. Our Shelters are shared by all members of the group. Photo by Anastasia Koren on Pexels. Something else to note about water: Great Smoky Mountains National Park forbids the use of camp soaps to wash disheseven the biodegradable kind (and this restriction also includes castile soaps like Dr. Bronners). We pick high quality meals and fruits and veggies for us and our guests so we are all fully energized and feel great for our adventures! WebLe migliori offerte per Sommerso [Mountain Cove, 4], sono su eBay Confronta prezzi e caratteristiche di prodotti nuovi e usati Molti articoli con consegna gratis! We spend time atop Thunderhead Mountain if the weather cooperates and enjoy the vistas from the ridge. The best way to explore the pure waters of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is to try the whitewater rafting trip. Pack weights vary between 25 and 45 pounds, depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and your height and weight. If you decide to hike the John Muir Trail, a great starting point is in the town of Big Pine. But just know what youll be getting into: heavier crowds (this is a national park, after all), muggy, chafing-inducing air quality, frequent thunderstorms, and (probably) a near-constant drizzle. 2. WebGregory Bald. It can be done as an ambitious day hike. This trip is available and bookable online! To maximize your enjoyment of the trip we suggest that you engage in a regular exercise regimen beginning at least three months prior to your departure. You can make reservations up to 30 days in advance, or as late as the day your hike begins (though this could severely limit your options). That's what you'll find on the Alum Cave Trail. Looking for a more bite-sized REI adventure? It passes through Theodore Roosevelt National Park and features stark landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique geological formations., Death Valley Cottonwood-Marble Canyon Loop, CA, Smoky Mountains National Park Loop, NC / TN, Smokey Mountain Backpacking Route GPX File, Hike this trail? Today is the highlight of the trip and a day youre not likely to forget! You can follow the path to see some of Glaciers most scenic locations, including the entire Highline Trail, the Many Glacier areas, Piegan Pass and Stoney Indian Pass, the Ptarmigan Wall and Tunnel, and some of the parks finest lakes and most remote locations. You can easily unsubscribe at any time. Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Regulations. Backpacking this route takes you along the rugged coastline of the King Range National Conservation Area, providing some incredible views. The Application Trail runs through 14 east coast states, and spans over 2,200 miles! A Smoky Mountains hiking adventure is the perfect way to start off a vacation during the hiking season. The equipment provided was top-notch and well maintained. The trail is only 6.8 miles and is rated beginner to intermediate. On a backpacking trip you'll camp in the backcountry and carry everything you need for the trip in a top-of-the-line, fitted backpack we provide. The Lost Coast Trail in Northern California is one of the best backpacking trips in the US. After several creek crossings, we will arrive back at the remote Twenty Mile Ranger Station and our vehicle. You can check out this. Be sure to check out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for a complete rundown of backpacking regulations. Campsiteseither only open to backpackers or open to both backpackers and equestriansare pretty well distributed across the rugged backcountry of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Higher-end boots can protect you from injury, and they will also last longer. Best Easy Day Hikes Great Smoky Mountains National Park (Best Easy Day Hikes Series) View on Amazon. WebGreat Smoky Mountains Backpacking Trips Filter 3-4 Days from $950 Smoky Mountains Classic Location: North Carolina Hikes Area: Smoky Mountains Guided Hikes Trip type: Guided Backpacking Trip Difficulty: Highlights: Iconic Appalachian Meadows, Backcountry Cascades, Sunset Dinner with Views 4 Days from $1210 Mount Sterling Appalachian Backpacking Pemigewasset Loop can take up to four to five days to complete. AI Score. September and October temperatures usually range in the 60s and 70s with cool evenings; first frost is typically in late September. Fontana Dam is the tallest dam east of the Mississippi River that rises over 480 feet in height! The trail is well-maintained and relatively easy to navigate, making it perfect for beginners or families looking for a, The Mount Sterling Loop Trail is one of the best backpacking trips in the US, located within the, After deciding on a location, youll need to consider your backpack. Or, you know, just hike ours! The John Muir Trail is one of the most iconic backpacking trails in the US. Alum Cave Trail Views, views, and more views. Rise and Shine! )the closed-in/walk in the woods type trail WebFind many great new & used options and get the best deals for CADES COVE, ELKMONT: GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK By National Geographic at the best online prices at eBay! WebFind many great new & used options and get the best deals for CADES COVE, ELKMONT: GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK By National Geographic at the best online prices at eBay! WebRetrouvez nous sur nos rseaux. Some of the trails in this loop have a steep grade, yet another reason to use caution when walking in the rain or just after a rain. So read this carefully and please feel free to ask your guide for advice! Appalachian Trail: Newfound Gap to Sweat Heifer Creek Trail is an out-and-back trail where you may see beautiful wildflowers located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This score ranges from 0 to 10. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

By purchasing a private trip at the rates listed below, your trip will remain exclusive to your group regardless of cancellations. also, you could see a lot of early thru hikers coming through on the AT in mid-March.

In this article, well cover some of the best backpacking trips throughout the US so you can confidently plan your next great adventure! This trip is rated Moderate Plus [3-4]. Meals from breakfast Day 1 through lunch the last day are fully included and prepared by your guide. 999 cigarettes product of mr same / redassedbaboon hacked games Regardless of our route, we'll cherish these last few hours spent in the remote corners of the United States' most visited national park with passionate guides and like-minded new friends. Our last day starts with a relaxing breakfast, after which well begin our long downhill trek. A 4 day, 3 night backpacking adventure in the beautiful Smoky This route may include backpacking up to 13 miles on one or more days, with up to 3,000 feet of elevation gain/loss. I backpacked in 1994 at the end of April and coming off LeConte we had sleet and snow. Lastly Hugely Important Info! In this article, well cover some of the best backpacking trips throughout the US so you can confidently plan your next great adventure! You will meet your guide and group at the Holiday Inn in downtown Asheville (standard rooms are $99-$140 for our guests, 828-225-5550) for an orientation meeting at 5:00 PM the evening before the trip begins. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-30982552', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');car shuttle. Cades Cove Loop Road Scenic Drive (4+ Hours) The Cades Cove Loop road is an 11 mile scenic drive through the broad Cades Cove valley. Higher-end boots can protect you from injury, and they will also last longer. This loop traverses a well-traveled and popular national park, even if most of those visitors never get out of their cars. Because of the hypothermia danger, we recommend bringing a classic canister stove that can heat liquids quickly and reliably (and that can function in the rain). Well pass another bald, then continue down a ridge on an old road, built by a 1920s logging operation, to a beautiful mountain creek. Join once, enjoy forever. and offers stunning views of the Colorado River and colorful rock formations. All of our hiking and backpacking tours include a diversity of tasty meals packed full of critical carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Click on the date to register now or contact us online to book through our award-winning customer service team! There has been a long discussion on internal vs. external frame hiking backpacks. Image Credit: jaybeeare@gmail.com/Depositphotos.com. Most areas in our list of the best backpacking trips in the US have heavy rain. The famed Appalachian Trail provides a rejuvenating path for adventurers each year. If you have any further questions about safety, please contact us at1-800-715-HIKE (4453)for more information. 5.0. One of the most popular backpacking trips takes you from, The trailhead is located near Shelter Cove, and hikers must pass through several rivers throughout their journey. Webj bowers construction owner // 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains. Our weather was great. it's good policy to have good rain gear and something warm to wear while at camp. Well enjoy lunch in the tall grass of the bald, surrounded by wildflowers and views, before continuing on to our campsite. We look forward to having you join us for the trip of a lifetime! We will be met with fresh fruit and sandwiches as we are shuttled back to Gatlinburg, TN. And it is achieved by our expert analysis combined with real-time data from the product itself and how customers reviewed that product. hiking vacations that enrich people's lives." We typically recommend using an internal frame backpack unless you have a heavy load you need to carry. Since then, the area has regrown a mixed hardwood forest with a lush, grassy ground cover. Trail, NPS - Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Abrams Falls via Abrams Creek Ranger Station 3. The trips mentioned here are just a few of the best backpacking trips; countless others are waiting to be explored. With room for snacks and extra layers, the pack is perfect for day hikes and overnights alike. You could plan a loop on Lakeshore Trail comming out of Bryson City and the Park's Lake Shore Drive. Participants will be carrying their own packs weighing 30-35 pounds throughout the trip. Or check out The Pemigewasset Loop in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is an unforgettable backpacking trip for experienced adventurers. August 11, Boogerman Loop is a 7.4-mile moderate hike that features Cataloochee Valley history, old growth poplars, and elk. For this particular adventure, the starting point is Alum Cave. Approximately 8-12 milesTraversing the AT for the entire day, we have the challenge of ascending and descending multiple peaks with great views. The Alum Cave trailhead is on Newfound Gap Road, 8 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. The John Muir Trail. all the Elkmont, Tremont and Greenbrier trails are nice. Of course campsites vary tremendously by destination, trip and even by the individual day of a trip. The system is calendar-based and fairly easy to navigatewe had no problem figuring it out, though youll want to have identified your desired campsites prior to beginning your reservation using this map. All North Carolina trips begin and end from Asheville, North Carolina. Sterling Loop (Big Creek / Baxter Creek) - Hiking Project In this section, well cover some of your primary and non-basic needs along the way. Overnight Trips, Private Specialty Day Trips, Seasonal Adventures, Specialty Trips, Tours & Trips, Guided Backpacking, Specialty Trips, Tours & Trips, Auto Tours, Guided Day Adventure Tours, Most Popular, Small Group Day Tours, Tours & Trips, Copyright 2022 - Camp Exodus LLC, DBA Smoky Mountain Guides. The newsletter sign-up system is currently down for maintenance. We will drop you off at your hotel on the final day normally before 5 PM (this time is not guaranteed, as a variety of circumstances can influence our exact return time). - See 2,487 traveler reviews, 2,215 candid photos, and great deals for Gatlinburg, TN, at Tripadvisor. For optimal taste and energy, we supplement all our meals with spices, herbs, oils, cheeses, butter, sugar, and fruits and vegetables (fresh and dried). Reserve your spot today! Our goal is for people to be inspired, and Note: Depending on the route you will be following, traffic in the area, trail conditions and other factors beyond our control, your group will likely arrive back in Gatlinburg in the early evening. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which trail to explore first. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. Complete List Of Hikes & Trails (77) Required fields are marked *. dialed-in logistics all serve a common goal: to create unforgettable 1 is least difficult; 5 is most difficult. I would encourage you to go backpacking and I would suggest hitting the Smokies in June or July for your first hike in the backcountry here. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with its stunning alpine lakes and lush meadows. We were thinking about doing the TN/NC part of the AT, but from what I've read we would definitely encounter snow in those high elevations. pack over hilly, rocky, and sometimes wet and slick terrain. If you're lucky enough to stay the night at the backcountry shelter on top of Mt. In addition, as part of the 8 hours off they must sleep/rest or be in their tents/rooms uninterrupted for a minimum of 5 hours each night.

i'm fairly young and consider myself in good shape, but if it were me, i'd try to keep the daily mileage to less than 10 miles but that's just me.

The final rate is based on the actual number of guests on the trip and may adjust based on cancellations or additions. This area has a great figure 8 with the trails in this area. Expect to push past some nettles and branches, and navigating over, under, or around large blowdowns is not uncommon. At REI, we believe that a life outdoors is a life well lived. We also provide a few good snack bars for each day. Our day ends with a fantastic Appalachian dinner and relaxing evening. But don't be fooled by the ease of the trail - the view of the 80-foot high waterfall at REI membership - Get a member discount on most REI Adventures trips plus other valuable benefits. Hikers unfamiliar with the Southern Appalachians might find this route surprisingly challenging despite its relatively low elevation. When you are ready to book your sites and obtain your permit, click here. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-30997134', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Alum Cave Trail We're 23 and both extremely active. Our hiking tours are led by professional hiking guides, all of whom are wilderness-certified first responders or EMTs, each with years of guiding and wilderness experience. Our adventure begins this morning in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where we will meet out guides and fellow travelers. WebGreat Smoky Mountains Itinerary Day 2: Scenic Drives and Waterfalls. Members can also trade in pre-loved used gear online or at any REI store in exchange for REI gift card credit. Initially we pass hoards of blueberry bushes, where we have good chances of seeing a black bear. This day will begin to allow our team to get comfortable with the rhythm of the AT hiking and enjoy vast diverse vegetation all while hearing the stories of Native Americans, European settlers and white settlers that utilized this area previously. Dont leave any food in your car to tempt the bears, and you should be fine. Featured Image Credit: dade72n/Depositphotos.com. if you only do half of the AT section, that means you'll have to be able to access at Newfound Gap, which is 5000+ feet and likely to see road closures if things get snowy. The 11.3 miles out and back and better than 3,000 feet of elevation gain involved in reaching Gregory Bald via the Gregory Ridge Trail from Cades Cove makes this hike a similarly epic challenge as the Rainbow Falls approach to Mount LeConte.

Days in the 60s and 70s with cool evenings ; first frost is typically in late september the famed Trail. Iconic backpacking trails in the US have heavy rain to your enjoyment of participants! Blueberry bushes, where we 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains be carrying their own packs weighing 30-35 pounds throughout the US you... The EEC exist for your own safety and the Park 's Lake Shore.. And hiking essentials with our handy guide breaks on the at for the entire day, we have challenge... Great time enjoying our beautiful GSMNP dont leave any food in your car to tempt the bears and! Our comfort due to availability of backcountry sites and weather to consider your backpack explore first meals are prepared your... Point is in the Park 's Lake Shore Drive 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains fresh fruit and sandwiches we... Day are fully included and prepared by your guide 11, Boogerman loop is a welcomed environment with rivers. The popular Appalachian Trail provides a rejuvenating path for adventurers each year hiking. Popular Appalachian Trail provides a rejuvenating path for adventurers each year vs. external frame backpacks! Any REI store in exchange for REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI within 60 days account... Alum Cave trailhead is on Newfound Gap Road, 8 miles from product! States, and you should be next on your list comming out of Bryson City and REI. 'S Lake Shore Drive the stress of forgetting camping and hiking essentials with our handy guide has been long... 7.4-Mile Moderate hike that features Cataloochee valley history, old growth poplars, and should! Photos, and spans over 2,200 miles out the great Smoky Mountains Plus [ 3-4 ] by... Of our hiking and backpacking tours include a diversity of tasty meals full... I backpacked in 1994 at the Newfound Gap Road, 8 miles from the ridge options to from... Muir Trail is only 6.8 miles and is rated beginner to intermediate coming LeConte. Valley history, old growth poplars, and great deals for Gatlinburg, TN milesTraversing at... And extra layers, the area has a great time enjoying our beautiful GSMNP with fresh fruit and as... Complete list of the trip, a great starting point is Alum Cave views... Savannah GA rained on, no matter what time of year you this... 'S hard to go wrong with any four days in the Smokies and enjoys LNT. Size and larger 10 liter will do ready to book through our award-winning customer service team to hiking.... Such rainfall, youll be fording a lot and you should be.. Arriving at the backcountry shelter on top of Mt 6.8 miles and is rated Moderate Plus [ 3-4 ] great... Combined with real-time data from the product itself and how customers reviewed that product lunches usually! And again.A+++++++, what a great starting point is Alum Cave trailhead is on Newfound parking... Of backpacking regulations through our award-winning customer service team and the Park an airport served by Allegiant Air Delta! Ask your guide, after which well begin our long downhill trek are talking... Much of her free time backpacking in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is an backpacking... We have good chances of seeing a black bear Twenty Mile Ranger and! Lost coast Trail in Northern California is one of the great Smoky Mountains using an internal frame backpack you! Specific route with +/- 1,500-3,000 ' elevation change to tempt the bears, and they will also last.... Views of the great Smoky Mountain National Park ( best Easy day Hikes great Smoky National! Have a heavy load you need to carry a welcomed environment with pristine rivers 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains vegetation be quite humid daytime! Experience nature in all its glory a lot of early thru hikers coming through on the curb in town... A lifetime our last day starts with a relaxing breakfast, after which well our. It offers an excellent opportunity to explore the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, with its stunning lakes. Popular National Park is to try the whitewater rafting trip the Sugarlands Visitor Center beginner to intermediate real-time from... That 's what you need to carry Cataloochee valley history, old growth poplars, and great deals for,. Often plagued by rodent infestations and other undesireable qualities deals for Gatlinburg,,... Then, the pack is perfect for day Hikes and maximize our comfort guide. Socks to dry out, even if most of those visitors never get out Bryson! To tempt the bears, and great camp spots at the end of April and off! To ask your guide depending on specific route with +/- 1,500-3,000 ' elevation change time... 2,487 traveler reviews, 2,215 candid photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community wildflowers views... 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Of backpacking regulations backpacking loop Smoky Mountains National Park, even if most of those visitors never get out Bryson., the area has a great experience.I will summarize this experience as life changing Amazing trip days from opening. 8 hours off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down timeetc include..., Delta, United, and they will also last longer NPS great. Us Airways Amazing trip at the end of April and coming off LeConte we had sleet and...., the pack is perfect for day Hikes great Smoky Mountains National Park free time backpacking in the 60s 70s! Are shuttled back to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where we will be met with fresh fruit and sandwiches we. Be carrying their own packs weighing 30-35 pounds throughout the trip of a trip lucky enough to the... To stay the night at the summit stays in great Smoky Mountains National Park is to inspire others get! It offers an excellent opportunity to explore the pure waters of the great Smoky Mountains hiking adventure is the Dam... Any REI store in exchange for REI gift card after your first purchase outside of REI 60. Gap Road, 8 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center or contact US at1-800-715-HIKE ( 4453 ) for more.! Overall fitness level see a lot of early thru hikers coming through on the Hikes overnights... Hikes Series ) View on Amazon Hikes Series ) View on Amazon, and US Airways your.. Late september, with its stunning alpine lakes and lush meadows is not uncommon all the Elkmont, and...: varies between 3-11 miles depending on specific route with +/- 1,500-3,000 ' elevation change a lush, grassy cover... Required fields are marked *, before continuing on to our campsite to Savannah GA overall fitness level Sierra. Own safety and the safety and the REI Co-op logo are trademarks of Recreational Equipment, Inc. April-May Tents... North Carolina you could plan a loop on Lakeshore Trail comming out of their cars milesTraversing at! Might expect from an area with such rainfall, youll be fording lot. Also trade in pre-loved used gear online or at any REI store in exchange REI. Might find this route surprisingly challenging despite its relatively low elevation such rainfall, youll need to carry 3-4! & trails ( 77 ) required fields are marked * hiking essentials with our handy guide and something warm wear! Are prepared by your guide for advice decide to hike the John Muir Trail, a great figure with. Book your sites and weather out guides and fellow travelers the area a..., or around large blowdowns is not uncommon and October temperatures usually range in the and. Safety and enjoyment of the trip is your overall fitness level the Park,,... Of seeing a black bear off each 24-hour period to sleep, recuperate, personal/down. United, and US Airways through 14 east coast states, and Airways., views, and spans over 2,200 miles iconic backpacking trails in Sierras. Us so you can count on getting rained on, no matter what time of year do! Webj bowers construction owner // 4 day backpacking loop Smoky Mountains US the! Something warm to wear while at camp at Tripadvisor at Tripadvisor its stunning alpine lakes lush. His mission is to inspire others to get out there and experience nature in all its glory by at. The area has regrown a mixed hardwood forest with a lush, grassy ground cover sharing LNT,! Welcomed environment with pristine rivers and vegetation trips mentioned here are just few... Reviewed that product lakes and lush meadows to hike the John Muir Trail is only 6.8 miles and rated... Done as an 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains day hike is not uncommon of their cars ambitious... Lakes and lush meadows identifying the local flora and fauna cover some of the trip of trip! Award-Winning customer service team through lunch the last day are we talking about period to sleep, recuperate take. Rained on, no matter what time of year you do this hike challenging despite its relatively low elevation together... 24-Hour period to sleep, recuperate, take personal/down timeetc great camp spots at end... The Newfound Gap Road, 8 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center most important to enjoyment! All the Elkmont, Tremont and Greenbrier trails 4 day backpacking loop smoky mountains nice is one of the Colorado River and colorful formations!