Great Smoky Mountains Hiking & Camping Forum

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Cades Cove Area Trails

Steve Kemp

The Sugarlands

Scotts1919, Some of the park's lesser used front country campgrounds might fit your tastes, including Cosby, Big Creek, Balsam Mountain (mile high elevation), and Cataloochee. There are several trails to backcountry sites that are only a couple miles, including a brand new one on Huskey Gap Trail in the Elkmont area.

scotts1919

Chicago

I was wondering if someone could give me some insight. My girlfriend and i are in the process of planning a trip to the smoky mountains in June for the first time. What we want to do is camp and hike. This will be one of our first hiking experiences but we are very athletic and well versed in the hiking/camping. We are really wondering where we can stay in the park that doesent feel like staying at a RV campground with a lot of people around. We dont just want to backpack as we are not that experienced but we do want to stay in tents and feel away from civilization. we are driving down from chicago and were wondering if there was a spot we could park our car at, and maybe walk in to the park 3/4 - 1 mile at most, set up camp and go on day hiking trips from then on for a few days? We want to see some waterfalls, outdoor life, take pictures, etc. any info would be greatly appreciated. if its easier e-mail me at scotts1919@yahoo.com. Thanks for help and insight in advance!

Steve

The Sugarlands

Nick, Mid to late April is the time when lots of Appalachian Trail thru-hikers come through the Smokies. It may be hard to get reservations at the Appalachian Trail shelters in the park this time of year.

Nick

Chicago

Hey everybody, does anyone have a suggestion for a 7 day, 6 night backpacking trip through the smoky's? We're looking to go sometime in April with a group of 3 experienced hikers. We are looking for a secluded route through the back country if possible. Any ideas?

Colorado Girl

Nashville, TN

Thanks! I will look into that. Do you think it would be pretty busy because of Clingman's Dome? Also, just talked to Ranger and he suggested the Cataloochee area for seclusion. Do you know anything else about that area?