my brother and i are goiing to hike the AT in the park in october. how many miles a day is reasonable in rough country? do you suggest a nobo or a sobo trip?
mark
Hiking the at in gsmnp
system
#2
Mark, it really depends on the shape you guys are in and your time frame. When I went through there (south to north) I was in no great hurry. I made stops at the following shelters: Mollies Ridge, Derrick Knob, Double Spring Gap, Icewater Spring, Tri-Corner Knob, and Cosby Knob. It was a nice easy pace and doable mileage for most anyone.
Don’t know if there’s an advantage, one over the other, to go north or south. Of course, the less strenuous way would be hike both halves from Newfound Gap. I believe they estimate going north and south from there you would have more down’s than up’s. But in truth, I always find those long downhill sections harder on my knees anyway. So, just pick a direction and have at it!
Good hiking! October is a great time to go!
Woody
system
#3
since you are limited by shelter reservations its 1 shelter or 2 shelters a day. If you take other trails than AT campgrounds and less busy shelters add more versatility. When you try to make reservations what is available may dictate your schedule
george
system
#4
Woody and George gave good insiteful information. I am not going to answer your questions, but I will recommend less than 30 lbs total pack weight. Since you MUST make shelter reservations and you MUST adhere to them, why bring a tent? I followed a similar schedule as Woody, but stayed overnight in a motel in Gatlinbutg, plus had a maildrop there. That way you are carrying 3 days or so of food, plus the opportunity to rest in a guaranteed dry and warm environment. I would carry a 20 degree sleeping bag. Enjoy the Smokies.
Steamer