Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 4-day Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour All necessary gear (backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent) Meals: All dinners and breakfasts Some snacks (it’s recommended to bring your own to supplement) Accommodation: 3 nights in tents and sleeping bags/pads Gear: Backpack, tent, sleeping bad, sleeping pad (if needed, you’re welcome to bring your own) Shuttle from the meeting location to starting trailhead Permits and parking tags Hiking poles Water filter, first aid kit, stove and fuel Not included: Flights Transportation before and after the trip Meals not indicated in the itinerary (lunches) Personal items Guide gratuities — optional Insurance — available to add at checkout

How fit do I need to be?

This trip is rated challenging, which means that a great level of fitness is required to participate. Plan to hike for 6-10 hours per day , most days on steep, rocky, rooty, wet, uneven and sometimes exposed terrain. Depending on permitted routing, one or more days of this itinerary may include backpacking up to 21 km (13 mi) , with up to 914 m (3,000 ft) of elevation gain/loss. Participants will be carrying their own packs weighing 13.6-15.9 kg (30-35 pounds ) throughout the trip. To maximize the enjoyment of the trip, it’s recommended that participants engage in a regular exercise regimen beginning at least 3 months prior to the departure. For more Appalachian trail tours, click here !

What’s the food like?

Your guides provide freeze-dried or dehydrated meals and some snacks. Freeze-dried or dehydrated meals are perfect for Smokies backpacking because the Leave No Trace principle will be maintained effortlessly. The meals are lightweight and can accommodate a wide variety of dietary desires or needs. Snacks come in the form of bars , such as Clif, Lara, Fig, Nature Valley, etc.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Backpack, tent, sleeping bad and pad — provided by the guides, but you can bring your own if desired Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Waterproof rain jacket Waterproof rain pants Fleece or puffy jacket Spare clothes for layering (shorts, t-shirts, pants, socks) Underwear Camp shoes Sunhat Swimsuit Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, medications, bug spray, tissues, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Utensils (a single spoon, fork, or spork) Mug, bowl — optional Camera — optional (but recommended) Optional and recommended additional items: Bandana Knife Small plastic bags (for dirty clothing) Lip Balm Ziplock bags (for food trash) Map of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park Backpacking pillow Large trash bag Camp towel Book Whistle Compass Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 3:1. Should the group be fully booked, it will be accompanied by 2 guides. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants. An Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors older than 16 may be permitted to join the Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour is Fontana Dam. To get there, most people fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) . From there, you can use public transport or rent a car to reach Fontana Dam. Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 9am in the Fontana Dam Visitors Center.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS | NORTH CAROLINA

Appalachian Trail Backpacking Adventure: Camp, Hike, Paddle, Explore!

4 days | Challenging | 5.00

From $1,699 ()

Book a call

We could do just a backpacking trip. We could only go kayaking. But why not both? First, we’re crushing miles on the Appalachian Trail—high ridges, deep forests, and the kind of views that will make us forget our legs are on fire. Then? We go full send into Fontana Lake, setting up camp right on the shore before paddling off into the sunrise like backcountry legends. No roads, no crowds, just mountains, water, and the best kind of tired we’ll ever feel. Four days, two sports, one very cool way to explore the Smokies—thru-hiker grit meets lakeside lounging. Legs ready? Arms prepped? Let’s roll!

Adventure Highlights

No crowds, no problems: Hike through remote Smoky Mountain trails at their absolute best
Tower power: Climb Shuckstack Fire Tower for sky-high Appalachian views
Boots to boats: Start in the mountains, end on the water—best of both worlds

Duration

4 days

Season

June through September

Group size

Up to 6 people

Accommodation

Standard: Backpacking tents, sleeping pads and sleeping bags

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Why settle for just a hike when we can level up with a lake? We’re tackling the Appalachian Trail, camping under the Smoky Mountain stars, and then trading boots for kayaks to paddle our way out. Three nights in the wild, ridge walks with next-level views, and a final morning kayaking across Fontana Lake—it’s everything you love about backpacking, with a splash of something extra. If you’re craving a trip that keeps you on your toes (and in a kayak), this is your next move.

Day 1: Into the mountains

Our adventure begins at 9am at the Fontana Dam Visitors Center, where we’ll meet, go over gear, and discuss the route ahead. After a shuttle ride over the mountains, we’ll start our trek into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ascending to the Appalachian Trail. The day’s hike takes us through lush forests and up to stunning ridgelines, offering a taste of the legendary Thru Hiker experience. Tonight, we’ll set up camp in the backcountry, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Smokies.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 2: Ridge walks and Fire Towers

We’ll wake up to crisp mountain air and a hot breakfast before setting out along the Appalachian Trail. Today’s hike follows scenic ridgelines with breathtaking views and takes us to the historic Shuckstack Fire Tower. Those who climb to the top are rewarded with sweeping panoramas of the Smoky Mountains and Fontana Lake far below. We’ll continue along the trail, trekking through some of the most remote and untouched terrain in the eastern US before making camp for another peaceful night in the wilderness.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 3: Descent to the water

After breakfast, we’ll begin our descent from the heights of the Smokies, making our way down toward the shimmering waters of Fontana Lake. By afternoon, we’ll arrive at our lakeside campsite, where we can relax, set up camp, and take a refreshing swim in the clear, cool water. As we unwind, a boat will deliver our kayaks, giving us the chance to paddle out and explore the serene lake before enjoying our last night under the stars.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Camping

Day 4: Paddle to the finish

We’ll trade hiking boots for paddles this morning, setting out on a leisurely 4.8-8 km (3-5 mi) kayak journey across Fontana Lake. Gliding over the tranquil waters, we’ll soak in the final views of the Smokies before arriving at Fontana Marina. From there, a shuttle will take us back to the Visitors Center, where we can freshen up with a shower and explore the fascinating history of the tallest dam in the East before bidding farewell to an unforgettable adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Adventure Architect

Let’s build something unique. Design your own adventure from the ground up and let us handle the rest.

Start Designing

Photo gallery

Adventure, packed to go

Appalachian Trail Backpacking Adventure: Camp, Hike, Paddle, Explore!

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

Download to share and explore full itineraries, key info, FAQs, and guide details.

Download now

Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Raechelle

Raechelle grew up in Northwest Pennsylvania and attended the University of Pittsburgh. After several local trips to Ohiopyle and the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, she journeyed out west to explore Zion National Park, the Grand Canyon, Coyote Gulch, and more. Outside of hiking and camping, Raechelle enjoys reading, sci-fi, and has a deep love for animals of all kinds. She spends her downtime with her partner and their adopted 80-lb brindle mutt who they renamed Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

5.00

Jack

Jack was raised in Shelby, North Carolina. He grew up playing in creeks and chasing critters in the foothills of Western North Carolina. Before coming to A Walk in the Woods, Jack was a head guide for the Nantahala Outdoor Center, leading ziplining trips and guiding rafts down the river. Over the winters, Jack is a ski instructor working with kids on the slopes. As an avid whitewater paddler, he loves spending hot summer days on the water. He also enjoys gardening and foraging.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (7 reviews)

Bryan Stanfill

I would definitely recommend these guys they are well trained knowledgeable caring people who saved my friends life. We were not even in their group and they were able to get my friend stable until search and rescue arrived. Brian and Andy I want to thank you personally and I want everyone who is considering using this company to know that I would feel very safe in the wilderness with these guys.

Lila Ellison

Ken was a great guide. We learned so much about the trail and the Smoky Mountains. Will definitely do this again. We all walked at a very comfortable pace.

UW Hiker

This trip was great, so glad I did it. Andy and Cade were great guides, it was nice to get to know them and hear about their experiences. They have a lot of knowledge to share. The sites/hike we stayed at were beautiful, the hiking was challenging but very doable. The diverse ecosystem in the park was amazing. You don’t know what distance you will be doing until you get there, so make sure you train for the longer distances mentioned.

Show all reviews

Bryan Stanfill

Lila Ellison

Ken was a great guide. We learned so much about the trail and the Smoky Mountains. Will definitely do this again. We all walked at a very comfortable pace.

UW Hiker

Kate S

Amazing guides! Beautiful and challenging trip
Wow! This was a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Our guides, Andy and Liz, were INCREDIBLE. So knowledgeable, helpful, kind and fun. I did not expect how much I would learn about the flora and wildlife. I was in a group of six women plus our guides – and found the trip challenging but also stunningly beautiful and fun. We hiked 5-7 miles daily with some big climbs; was hard but we paced ourselves and stuck together throughout. The hardest part was lots of rain – and the discomfort of that. (I did not realize that much of Smokey Mountain National Park is a rainforest!) The food and dehydrated meals were surprisingly tasty! Overall, we had an incredible, bonding journey that will stick with me for years to come. I’d definitely recommend this to others who are looking for a challenging, fun outdoor adventure!!

Jeff E

We had a fantastic trip into the mountains! This was my first backpacking experience and I was looking for an enjoyable challenge while unplugging from the hustle of daily life. It was everything I hoped for and got to experience all the things – cold weather, warm weather, light rain, sunshine, challenging terrain, amazing views, and beautiful nature. Our guides, Corian and Brandy, were exceptional. They had great knowledge of the area and backpacking in general, allowing me as a first timer to settle comfortably into the experience while learning some of the tips and tricks. Conversation was easy with our guides and fellow travelers creating an overall great experience that I would love to do again.

Phil

Great hike, Great guides, Unforgettable Times!
Just got back from this trip and it over exceeded all my expectations. We got to experience a little bit of everything the Smokey Mountains and the AT had to offer! The hike had some challenge parts but was very well paced. Our guides (Ben and Cade) felt more like lifelong friends, that shared their vast knowledge with all of us. The views were spectacular and mountain air was something I wish I could bottle up and take back with home with me. I’ve been back for less than a week and I’m already planning my next trip!

Rachel

Fantastic Experience
I just finished this trip 2 days ago and I already wish I could go back. Liz and TJ were the best guides hands down, they made the whole trip fun and exciting. They would stop us every so often to explain a tree, bug, snake, animals print, or a view to us. When we had a hard day with the highest elevation change and the steepest climb they were the biggest cheerleaders, and as someone who came from sea level or below sea level it helped when I needed to take frequent breaks to catch my breath. I would totally go on another trip if those two were the guides, doesn’t matter what they were leading. The views we got were amazing and could not be beat and the campsites were spectacular. The activity level is as described.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 4-day Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour
  - All necessary gear (backpack, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent)
  - Meals: All dinners and breakfasts
  - Some snacks (it’s recommended to bring your own to supplement)
  - Accommodation: 3 nights in tents and sleeping bags/pads
  - Gear: Backpack, tent, sleeping bad, sleeping pad (if needed, you’re welcome to bring your own)
  - Shuttle from the meeting location to starting trailhead
  - Permits and parking tags
  - Hiking poles
  - Water filter, first aid kit, stove and fuel
Not included:
- - Flights
  - Transportation before and after the trip
  - Meals not indicated in the itinerary (lunches)
  - Personal items
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Insurance — available to add at checkout
This trip is rated challenging, which means that a great level of fitness is required to participate. Plan to hike for 6-10 hours per day, most days on steep, rocky, rooty, wet, uneven and sometimes exposed terrain. Depending on permitted routing, one or more days of this itinerary may include backpacking up to 21 km (13 mi), with up to 914 m (3,000 ft) of elevation gain/loss.

Participants will be carrying their own packs weighing 13.6-15.9 kg (30-35 pounds) throughout the trip. To maximize the enjoyment of the trip, it’s recommended that participants engage in a regular exercise regimen beginning at least 3 months prior to the departure.

For more Appalachian trail tours, click here!
Your guides provide freeze-dried or dehydrated meals and some snacks. Freeze-dried or dehydrated meals are perfect for Smokies backpacking because the Leave No Trace principle will be maintained effortlessly.

The meals are lightweight and can accommodate a wide variety of dietary desires or needs. Snacks come in the form of bars, such as Clif, Lara, Fig, Nature Valley, etc.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Backpack, tent, sleeping bad and pad — provided by the guides, but you can bring your own if desired
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Waterproof rain pants
  - Fleece or puffy jacket
  - Spare clothes for layering (shorts, t-shirts, pants, socks)
  - Underwear
  - Camp shoes
  - Sunhat
  - Swimsuit
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, toothpaste, medications, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Utensils (a single spoon, fork, or spork)
  - Mug, bowl — optional
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Optional and recommended additional items:
- - Bandana
  - Knife
  - Small plastic bags (for dirty clothing)
  - Lip Balm
  - Ziplock bags (for food trash)
  - Map of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park
  - Backpacking pillow
  - Large trash bag
  - Camp towel
  - Book
  - Whistle
  - Compass
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 3:1. Should the group be fully booked, it will be accompanied by 2 guides.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 6 participants.
An Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors older than 16 may be permitted to join the Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Appalachian trail backpacking kayak tour is Fontana Dam. To get there, most people fly into Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). From there, you can use public transport or rent a car to reach Fontana Dam.

Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 9am in the Fontana Dam Visitors Center.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

Book a call

Book This Adventure for a Private Group

Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.

Talk to an Adventure Planner