Fall Break Backpacking Trip - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Trip Leader - Tucker
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| Trip Date: | Friday,
Oct 17,
2025 6:00:00 AM - 8:00:00 PM |
Max Attendees: | 5 |
| Trip Type: | Backpacking | Pets: | Pets NOT Allowed |
| Attendee Restrictions: | Members Only | Distance/Difficulty: | 30 Miles - Strenuous |
| Driving Required: | Yes |
Description
We'll drive just over 4 hours through Gatlinburg, TN to arrive at the trailhead. We'll hike about 8 miles on Friday, 13 miles on Saturday, and 9 miles on Sunday before heading back to Blacksburg. We'll be on Appalachian Trail's ridgeline for about half of the hike and hit spots such as Charlie's Bunyon and Mount Collins. This trip is meant for those with backpacking experience only. We will be covering 30 miles with 7200 ft of elevation gain, so plan accordingly.
Location
We will meet on campus and then carpool from there.
Driving Directions
Newfound Gap Parking Area, Bryson City, NC 28713
What You Should Bring
Make sure you bring proper gear, food, and water supplies. Temperatures may get down to the 40s, so prepare accordingly. At a minimum, you should bring: - Sleeping bag - Tent (unless sharing with others) - Base layer and rain jacket - Food to last 3 days/nights (2-3 lunches, 2 dinners, 2 breakfasts, snacks) - Water (either pack out water or bring a filtering setup) Other recommended items: - Sleeping pad - Headlamp/flashlight - Portable charger/fully charged phone - Cookware (gas can, stove, pot, utensil) - Hiking poles