On this Intro to Backpacking trip, you’ll learn how to pack your backpack, set up camp, filter water, cook meals, and practice safe backpacking skills with your guide. Trip includes all necessary backcountry camping permits and fees, full gear rental (a comfortable backpack, trekking poles, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, and cook kit), breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trip, and a video orientation before the trip to discuss planning and preparation.

Note: Due to the limitations of the permit system in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our exact route, itinerary, and campsite will not be determined until 25 days prior to the trip start date.  We will aim to keep our daily mileage short, hiking approximately 3-5 miles to camp with up to 700' of elevation gain.  Your guide will reach out with your finalized itinerary, including your meeting location, approximately 3 weeks before the start of your trip.  

Difficulty Level: Beginner

This Beginner backpacking trip is considered Easy to Moderate.  A moderate hike is considered to be generally suitable for novice hikers looking for a bit of a challenge. It is best that you have some hiking experience, but backpacking experience is not required. 

Daily mileage on this trip ranges from 3 miles to 5 miles, with up to 700' of elevation gain.  Depending on the route, the terrain may be rocky and rooty and could have some creek crossings in ankle deep water. 

You will be expected to carry your own backpacking gear for the duration of the trip (gear rental included).  Your fully loaded pack should be under 20% of your body weight, or around 25-30 pounds. You will receive a detailed packing list after booking, and your guide will discuss what to bring (and what not to bring) during your virtual orientation.  It's important to keep your pack weight low to reduce your risk of injury and to make your hike more enjoyable.

What's Included:

• Virtual Orientation and Q&A session with your guide before the trip
• Full backpacking gear rental: backpack, trekking poles, tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, cook kit, and water filtration
• On-trail meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
• Backcountry camping permits in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Expert advice, tips, and planning from an experienced backpacking guide

Not Included:

• Guide gratuity (recommended 15-20% of trip cost)
• Parking pass for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park 
• Meals and lodging before/after trip
  
• Transportation from airports or hotels

Travel Insurance:

• We highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance with appropriate coverage.  Travel insurance may be used to reimburse the cost of an unexpected trip cancellation, for reasons such as illness, injury, a death in the family, or travel delays.  Wildwood Hiking Company does not offer travel insurance, but you can search online for a provider that fits your needs.