Best place to start in Smokys

imported
#1

Going to the AT from Wisconsin for a 2-day hike this weekend…

Where’s the best 2-day hike in the Smoky’s? Where do I start. We’d like to hike in 1 day and camp, then hike out the next day.

If there’s a loop hike so we don’t have to backtrack, that would be really cool, but if not, that’s okay, too.

Are there shuttles available?

This was kind of a last minute idea, so I’d appreciate any feedback. I know I could probably do my homework and figure it all out, but I thought I’d check with all the experts first and get it narrowed down.

I’ve never been to the east or the AT, and I’m SO excited to go!!!

Thanks to all for the help! :slight_smile:

Bobbigirl

#2

There are lots of loops. If you start your trip by dropping by any ranger station, there are maps available. (I think there’s a dollar donation requested. It’s on the honor system.) At the Sugarlands Visitor Center, there are many more detailed books, too. Be aware that many of the shelters and tenting areas are “rationed,” which means you need to have a reservation. Call 865-436-1231 to make a reservation. It’s free, and the person on the other end of the phone can probably help you plan your trip.

As to which part is the nicest…it’s all good. The north end is probably more gently graded. The Mt. Cammerer fire tower is lovely, and you’ll get a great view (assuming it’s not all socked in). One bit of advice–avoid trying to drive through Cades Cove on a weekend–you’ll be stuck in traffic for hours. The AT approach from the south is probably a longer, harder slog. You do get into some wonderful balds, with views down onto Fontana Lake. So take your pick.

I’d probably recommend starting at the Big Creek ranger station, hike up the AT (which runs alongside a lovely creek for quite a while), stop at Mt. Cammerer, and loop back around on one of the many possible trails. It just depends on how far you want to hike. There is quite a bit of elevation gain and loss.

Have a great time!

Marta

Marta

#3

just finished a 7 day adventure throught the smokies. They are absolutley amazing. If I were you I would start at Clingmans dome and hike west to Silers Bald. You will start at the highest point on the AT, and tennessee, and walk around 5 miles to Silers Bald shelter. Along the ay you will see it all, Ridges with steep drop offs, woods, descents, ascents, and then, once you reach Silers bald, the actual bald not the shelter, there is a small little trail off to the right that isnt marked at all, but if you go the 200 feet or so back there you will be rewarded with the view that made me fall in love with backpacking. Not to mention the shelter is one of the newer ones in the park.

Shuttles are availabel for a fee, usually pretty pricey, and a 2 day loop is uncommon, most loops will take you longer.

Im glad you chose the smokies,
Hammock PhD

Hammock PhD

#4

Start out at Newfound Gap and hike up to the top of Mt. LeConte. There is a shelter at the top and an Inn. At least the Inn was available when I made this trip a long time ago. Go up the Appalachian Trail until you reach the Boulevard Trail. Take Boulevard to the top. Mt. LeConte is 6000’ high. Then come back down the Alum Cave Trail or retrace your steps.

Margaret

#5

If you can get a reservation for Gregory Bald this is well worth your time. Park at 20 Mile ramger station and hike up to Gregory on Long Hungry trail and spend the night at the campsite. Then the next day hike back on Wolf Ridge trail. You will only have to back track for the last mile or so. A nice two day loop. Some really gung ho day hikers do the whole thing in one day, but it makes a nice two day trip for an old man like me. If it’s clear the stars alone make the trip worthwhile.

Gene Roll