If you are hiking from Springer Mtn. to Newfound Gap. do you need to have a backcountry permit?
_Bartender_Permits - Appalachian Trail
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#1
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#2
You will need a permit to hike in the Great Smokey National Park. You get the permit at the Visitors Center by the phones at Fontana Dam. You do not need reservations, but to thru-hike the park, you do need a permit. Simply fill out your plan (which may change due to weather, etc.) and leave the top copy in the box and carry the copy with you into the Park. Enjoy hiking in the Smokies...it's great!
_Sharon_
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#4
I have been hiking the Florida Trail with my dog Reggie with no problems and am wondering about the AT and what does a hiker do when we reach Smokey Mountain NP ? Thanks Hal
_HG_
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#5
Hal, dogs are only permitted on certain trails in the GSMNP and the AT is not one of them. You will need to find someone to care for your dog while you hike the park. Sorry, but in the backcountry GSMNP cares about how tame animals interact with the wildlife.
_Sharon_
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#6
When I hiked in 2000 there was a lady who would meet you at the Fontana Dam, pick up and board your dog and then meet you at the other end. It wasn't cheap if I remember correctly and she was real strict about when she was going to meet you. If you didn't show up in time you had to hitch to her place and pay extra to get fido back. A guy I was hiking with named Otto did this with his dog Raven.
_Big B_