Need some advice on doing a section hike of the Smokies in mid May. I know it’s about 70 miles through the Smokies. Plans are to hike south to north in mid May. Where can I leave a vehicle at the north end safely. How long should I give myself for a confortable hike. What kind of weather is typical for this time of year. Any side trips recomended? Any suggestions will be helpful.
VW
The North end of the Smokies ends in Davenport Map (i think) There is a hiker hostel close to there, a place called Mountain Mama’s. It gets mixed reviews from thru-hikers. I did not stay there. You’ll probably be able to pay to leave your car there and to get shuttled. I don’t remember the Smokies being particularly difficult. I guess there is a 18,000 ft elevation gain according to Sweeper which seems daunting. You should probably be comfortable doing 10-15 mile days if you’re a novice. The climb to the ridge at the beginning however is a big one going either way. I’d check out the ATC website for shuttles in the area. There is probably someone in Gatlinburg who helps out. Grimace
Grimace
Grimace is right it is 18000 ft. elevational, but don’t let it be intimidating, dispersed over 70 miles it isnt too bad. the trail north of newfound has far less climbing so if that’s your direction of travel, you picked wisely as you’ll be tackling the most rugged parts of the trail with a lighter pack. You will be able to go light in May though Smokies weather is unpredictable. There has been snow recorded every month of the year, but in May cold spells are generally short lived. My first traverse of the park was southbound and I allowed close to a week and it was fun!I carried too much stuff even being March. I’d suggest carrying only an emergency shelter to save weight as you should find room in the lean-tos. I suggest checking out Cammerer lookout, Mt. Leconte, Gregory Bald, and shuckstack firetower. Awesome! Also, we may meet up! I plan to be out there in mid may to give my third and hopefully final shot at the 24-hour traverse or as Grizzly Adams calls it, the GSMNP challenge. Hope you have more fun than me.
Sweeper
can leave car at mountain mommas for small fee, maybe park at ranger station in waterville too.
Sweeper
I hiked the park back in March.Started at Fontana and left a vehicle a Mountain Momas…$2.00 a day and it was fine. Nobody told me I’d need crampons for Clingmans Dome…serious ice!!! Did fine, just had to take my time and boy was I glad I had poles!!!
Mt Cammerer was to me one of the highlights of the Smokies…Absolutely beautiful!!!
Ben Evans