Included: 1-3 experienced hiking guides (based on group size) with extensive knowledge of the area 7-day Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour Accommodation for 6 nights lodging in a private room with ensuite bathroom (solo occupancy) All meals, from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 7 Transportation to/from the Knoxville airport (TYS) Transportation during the adventure White water rafting and rafting guide gratuities Not included: Airfare to/from Knoxville (TYS) Alcoholic beverages Optional activities Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

This Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour is appropriate for any woman who exercises regularly at a moderate level (such as going for 45-minute brisk walks 3-5 days a week), and who either enjoys hiking or is new to hiking and wants to learn in a safe and fun environment. On this trip there is a special emphasis on cultural and natural history and stopping to smell the flowers (literally). With lots of instruction and tips to make your hiking more enjoyable, this is an ideal trip for novice hikers. You can also learn to identify the many wildflowers found here. Expect hiking up to 7 mi (11.2 km) per day. For more hiking adventures in the USA, click here ! If you’re interested in more women-only adventures, click here !

What do I need to bring?

Footwear: 1 pair of waterproof, broken-in hiking boots or shoes 1 pair of alternate trail running shoes (helpful if blisters develop; consider sizing up slightly) 1 pair of comfortable athletic shoes, Keens, or Teva/Chaco sandals for general use 3-4 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic, e.g., Smartwool, Bridgedale, Darn Tough) 2 pairs of thin liner socks (silk or synthetic) Neoprene socks for rafting Clothing: 1-2 pairs of comfortable, synthetic long pants for hiking (zip-offs work well) 1 pair of shorts or 3/4 pants (lightweight and quick-drying) 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1-2 lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun/bug protection (button-up front is best) 1 fleece jacket or sweater 1 lightweight jacket or vest 1 rain jacket and rain pants/rain skirt (waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-Tex) 1 wide-brimmed or baseball-style cap/hat for sun/rain protection 1 lightweight wool or fleece hat (a buff can also serve as a hat) 1 pair of wool, Capilene, or Polartec gloves Underwear and nightwear 1 swimsuit or quick-dry shorts and a sports bra/t-shirt 2-3 changes of comfortable clothes for casual wear (e.g., pants and/or skirt with a couple of tops) Equipment/essentials: 1 pair of trekking poles 1 daypack (24-30L) with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters Waterproofing for your backpack (rain cover or heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack) 2-3 liter water capacity (hydration system or water bottles) Sunglasses (100% UV protection) with retention strap Sunscreen and lip protection Small headlamp or flashlight Personal first aid kit (including blister remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, and personal medications) Plastic, Tupperware-type container for lunch/sandwich Spork (for trail lunches) Hand sanitizer Ear plugs (for a good night’s sleep) Cell phone and charger Toiletries: Toothbrush and toothpaste Shampoo and conditioner Personal items (contact lens supplies, sanitary items, personal medications) Dental floss Optional items: 1-2 bandannas/buffs Short ankle gaiters Wristwatch/travel alarm clock Compact binoculars Book/journal and pen Lightweight umbrella Extra snacks (snacks will also be provided) Kula cloth Pocketknife

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1 It takes a minimum of 8 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants. A Great Smoky Mountains hiking 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 younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Great Smoky Mountains hiking 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.

Is a single occupancy room available?

Solo rooms are the standard on this trip . Privacy included, no sharing required! All rooms feature king or queen beds, all with private bathrooms. In case you’re coming with someone and you’d like to share a room, let us know before booking—there’s a special discount!

What about special dietary requirements?

Vegetarian options for this trip are available but may be more limited than you are used to. If you are concerned about having enough protein during your trip, plan to bring some plant-based protein sources such as nut butter, instant dried hummus, or high-protein energy bars. If you cannot eat gluten or if you have other dietary restrictions i.e. vegan, you will need to bring some supplemental food with you.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. To get there, most people fly into Knoxville Airport , also known as McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) . Once you’re at the Knoxville Airport, you will meet your guide there at noon, and then you’re going to be transferred to the park. If you’re driving,plan to meet the guides at the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic parking lot (south side) by 2pm.

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

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK | TENNESSEE

All-Women Hiking Tour of the Great Smoky Mountains: Wildflowers & Waterfalls

7 days | Easy | 5.00

From $3,595 ()

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Forget tiptoeing through the tulips—we’re stomping through a full-on floral explosion, where wildflowers paint the trail in every shade of fabulous. We’ll hike up, over, and into the heart of the Smokies—walking in the footsteps of badass pioneer women, chasing waterfalls, and paddling through rapids. Our days are packed with adventure, our nights with lodge life—think crackling fires, home-cooked feasts, and swapping stories in rocking chairs. This is an all-women adventure (with a side of barbecue) that you don’t want to miss. Come for the trails, stay for the sisterhood!

Connie

Adventure Highlights

Hike, paddle, explore: Walk the same paths as the Walker Sisters, then go rafting on the Pigeon River
Wildflower wonderland: Hike through meadows bursting with trilliums, violets, and rare orchids
Southern feasts: Enjoy amazing southern BBQ and homemade desserts

Duration

7 days

Season

April

Group size

Up to 12 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Step into the heart of the Great Smokies, where every trail has a story, every peak holds a view, and every meal feels like a hug from the South. This all-women adventure blends hiking through wildflower meadows, paddling down scenic rivers, and exploring the untamed beauty of the Appalachian wilderness. We’ll follow paths once walked by pioneer women, soak in the sounds of waterfalls, and indulge in homemade lodge meals and laughter by the fire. If you’re looking for adventure with a side of sisterhood, this is it!

Day 1: Knoxville to Park and Walker Sisters’ cabin

If you’re flying in, we’ll meet you at the Knoxville Airport at noon. From there, we’ll drive to the park and begin with an introduction to the cultural history of the Smokies by exploring what was once the Little Greenbrier Community. Highlights include the Little Greenbrier School, first opened in 1882, a pioneer cemetery, and the Walker Sisters’ cabin and home site. This slightly uphill trail follows an old roadbed.

If you’re driving, please plan to meet us at the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic parking lot (south side) by 2:00 p.m. We’ll hike the Little Brier Gap Trail, which is 2.6 miles round trip. Dinner tonight will be at our lodge, where you’ll enjoy a classic Southern barbecue meal.

Meals: Dinner
Hiking: 2-3 mi (3.2-4.8 km)
Accommodation: Mountain Laurel Chalets

Day 2: Porters Creek Trail

Our trail today ascends at a steady, moderate grade through a forest of towering Eastern Hemlocks and Fraser magnolias, eventually transitioning into a moist, sheltered cove hardwood forest. Renowned for its stunning wildflower display in April and May, the forest floor can become a vibrant carpet of 30 to 40 different wildflower species. Rich in cultural history, Porters Creek Trail features landmarks such as the old Baxter Cabin, stone walls, a historic cantilevered barn, and the Owenby Cemetery—remnants of a once-thriving community.

We’ll hike to Fern Branch Falls, where we’ll pause for lunch before heading back. Tonight’s dinner will begin with appetizers and continue with the first of several delicious, homemade meals prepared by the guides, ending with dessert!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 4 mi (6.4 km)
Accommodation: Mountain Laurel Chalets

Day 3: Visitors Center and White Oak Sink

Our first stop this morning will be the Sugarlands Visitors Center, where we’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the park and its history. Then, it’s back to hiking and the search for wildflowers! Traveling off the beaten path, today’s trail leads into a natural limestone sink. White Oak Sink is home to many rare plants, various caves, and a waterfall that flows into one of the caves. Spring wildflowers abound in the sink, carpeting the trail with a stunning variety of colors.

Our hike begins on the School House Gap Trail, an old roadbed with a gentle uphill grade. Soon, we’ll turn off the School House Gap Trail onto the unmaintained trail to White Oak Sink, which features occasional steep ascents and descents. Depending on time and energy levels, we may also have the option to visit Laurel Falls on our way back. After our hikes, we’ll head back to the lodge for some well-deserved relaxation—and tonight is pizza night!

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 5 mi (8 km)
Accommodation: Mountain Laurel Chalets

Day 4: Grotto Falls and Clingman’s Dome

This morning, we’ll head to the Grotto Falls hike, one of the park’s most spectacular waterfalls—and the only one we can actually walk behind! The trail is a moderate hike through a hardwood cove, offering great wildflower spotting and beautiful views across the valley. After our hike, we’ll return to our condo for lunch, with a few different options to choose from. The afternoon is free, and there are no wrong choices.

The guides will offer the opportunity to journey to the highest points of the park—New Found Gap (with a short walk on the Appalachian Trail) and Clingman’s Dome, at 6,643 ft (2,024 m), the highest point in the eastern U.S. Alternatively, we can enjoy downtown Gatlinburg or relax back at the lodge.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 2.6-4 mi (4.2-6.4 km)
Accommodation: Mountain Laurel Chalets

Day 5: Whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River and a visit to Bud Ogle’s farm

We’ll start with a delicious pancake breakfast before heading to the whitewater of the Pigeon River. While the rapids are exciting, the trip is perfectly suitable for novice rafters.

Afterward, we’ll return to Gatlinburg and visit the historic Bud Ogle’s farm, where we’ll take a short hike to explore what a typical homestead was like in this region, including a plume for water and a gristmill. Back at the lodge, we’ll have time to relax—perhaps in the hot tub or by unwinding in rockers on the porch before enjoying another homemade dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 1-2 mi (1.6-3.2 km)
Rafting: 2-4 hours
Accommodation: Mountain Laurel Chalets

Day 6: Maddron Bald Trail

Today’s trek will take us through Eastern Hemlock and deciduous forests as we hike along the Maddron Bald Trail. The trail begins as an old roadbed and ascends steadily but moderately throughout its length. We’ll enjoy lunch by the beautiful cascades before having the option to continue on to Albright Grove, an old-growth forest. Here, we’ll experience the sights, sounds, and feel of a home to ancient trees.

We’ll have plenty of time to stroll among and admire the grand Eastern Hemlocks, silverbells, Fraser magnolias, tulip trees, and other tree species before returning along the Maddron Bald Trail. We’ll return to the lodge with plenty of time to freshen up before heading into Gatlinburg to share our last dinner together at one of the many local restaurants.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6-7 mi (10-11.2 km)
Accommodation: Mountain Laurel Chalets

Day 7: Departure

It’s our last morning in the Smokies, but we’ll make sure to savor every minute! We’ll take our time this morning, enjoy our final breakfast together, and soak in the view from the lodge before making our way back.

We’ll stop by the Sugarlands Visitors Center for one last chance to pick up any items we may want to take home, and we’ll even have time to walk the nature trail to Cataract Falls. Afterward, we’ll head to the Knoxville airport. Those driving should plan to leave by 10am. Those flying will be returned to the Knoxville airport by 11am for a flight out after noon.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: 0.5-1 mi (0.8-1.6 km)

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Accommodation

Mountain Laurel Chalets

On this adventure, we’ll stay the entire week in a luxury lodge perched on a mountainside just outside Gatlinburg. There are 12 private rooms (some with king beds and others with Queens), all with private bathrooms.

Amenities include a pool table, a covered porch with rocking chairs and a great view, a hot tub, fireplace, and a large dining and living room. Everyone gets their own bedroom on this trip, no need to share! In case you’re coming with someone and would like to share a room with them, let us know—there’s a special discount.

Adventure, packed to go

All-Women Hiking Tour of the Great Smoky Mountains: Wildflowers & Waterfalls

Adventure Brochure

Adventure brochure

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

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Meet your guides

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

5.00

Connie

Connie thrives on the thrill of new experiences and the beauty of the natural world. After a decade of teaching music, she made the jump to snowy Alaska, then sunny Mexico, and finally bustling Barcelona. Connie loves sharing the joy of outdoor adventures, helping others connect deeply with nature and discover a sense of personal empowerment. When not guiding trips, you can find her trail running, backpacking, rock climbing, slacklining, and dreaming up her next big adventure.

5.00

Tori

Tori is a Professional Concert Dancer turned multi-certified, full-time Registered Maine Guide. With a passion for healing facilitation, she has worked to become a recognized Community Herbalist, Yoga Instructor, and Integrative Health and Wellness Coach. She blends her love for movement and holistic health with her knowledge of the outdoors to create well-rounded educational outdoor experiences. Her goal is to help you gain access to natural connection and to leave trips knowing more about yourself, the environment, and the bond between the two.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)

Stephanie P.

The guides were amazing. Not only were they great guides but also wonderful cooks. I was so appreciative of their cooking and providing us with delicious meals. The accommodations were exceptional. The hikes were nice and leisurely. Saw many waterfalls and wildflowers; however, we seemed to be a little early for some of the wildflowers. I would have liked a little more discussion on trees and shrubs. All the women on the trip were great – everyone was positive and easy to be with. The one downside was the afternoon shopping at the so-called craft stores. Most were not open on the day we were there, and even if they had been open they did not look very interesting.

Elizabeth H.

I think the overall group dynamic was fantastic. All of the participants were engaged in the activities and had a genuine desire to get to know each other.

Diane F.

the guides went over and above with food prep and hiking hints. Also the entire group got along splendidly. Loved having my own room.

Show all reviews

Stephanie P.

Elizabeth H.

I think the overall group dynamic was fantastic. All of the participants were engaged in the activities and had a genuine desire to get to know each other.

Diane F.

the guides went over and above with food prep and hiking hints. Also the entire group got along splendidly. Loved having my own room.

Things to know

Included:
- - 1-3 experienced hiking guides (based on group size) with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 7-day Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour
  - Accommodation for 6 nights lodging in a private room with ensuite bathroom (solo occupancy)
  - All meals, from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on Day 7
  - Transportation to/from the Knoxville airport (TYS)
  - Transportation during the adventure
  - White water rafting and rafting guide gratuities
Not included:
- - Airfare to/from Knoxville (TYS)
  - Alcoholic beverages
  - Optional activities
  - Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available to add at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
This Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour is appropriate for any woman who exercises regularly at a moderate level (such as going for 45-minute brisk walks 3-5 days a week), and who either enjoys hiking or is new to hiking and wants to learn in a safe and fun environment.

On this trip there is a special emphasis on cultural and natural history and stopping to smell the flowers (literally). With lots of instruction and tips to make your hiking more enjoyable, this is an ideal trip for novice hikers. You can also learn to identify the many wildflowers found here.

Expect hiking up to 7 mi (11.2 km) per day.

For more hiking adventures in the USA, click here! If you’re interested in more women-only adventures, click here!
Footwear:
- - 1 pair of waterproof, broken-in hiking boots or shoes
  - 1 pair of alternate trail running shoes (helpful if blisters develop; consider sizing up slightly)
  - 1 pair of comfortable athletic shoes, Keens, or Teva/Chaco sandals for general use
  - 3-4 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic, e.g., Smartwool, Bridgedale, Darn Tough)
  - 2 pairs of thin liner socks (silk or synthetic)
  - Neoprene socks for rafting
Clothing:
- - 1-2 pairs of comfortable, synthetic long pants for hiking (zip-offs work well)
  - 1 pair of shorts or 3/4 pants (lightweight and quick-drying)
  - 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts
  - 1-2 lightweight, long-sleeved shirts for sun/bug protection (button-up front is best)
  - 1 fleece jacket or sweater
  - 1 lightweight jacket or vest
  - 1 rain jacket and rain pants/rain skirt (waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-Tex)
  - 1 wide-brimmed or baseball-style cap/hat for sun/rain protection
  - 1 lightweight wool or fleece hat (a buff can also serve as a hat)
  - 1 pair of wool, Capilene, or Polartec gloves
  - Underwear and nightwear
  - 1 swimsuit or quick-dry shorts and a sports bra/t-shirt
  - 2-3 changes of comfortable clothes for casual wear (e.g., pants and/or skirt with a couple of tops)
Equipment/essentials:
- - 1 pair of trekking poles
  - 1 daypack (24-30L) with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters
  - Waterproofing for your backpack (rain cover or heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack)
  - 2-3 liter water capacity (hydration system or water bottles)
  - Sunglasses (100% UV protection) with retention strap
  - Sunscreen and lip protection
  - Small headlamp or flashlight
  - Personal first aid kit (including blister remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, and personal medications)
  - Plastic, Tupperware-type container for lunch/sandwich
  - Spork (for trail lunches)
  - Hand sanitizer
  - Ear plugs (for a good night’s sleep)
  - Cell phone and charger
Toiletries:
- - Toothbrush and toothpaste
  - Shampoo and conditioner
  - Personal items (contact lens supplies, sanitary items, personal medications)
  - Dental floss
Optional items:
- - 1-2 bandannas/buffs
  - Short ankle gaiters
  - Wristwatch/travel alarm clock
  - Compact binoculars
  - Book/journal and pen
  - Lightweight umbrella
  - Extra snacks (snacks will also be provided)
  - Kula cloth
  - Pocketknife
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 Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1
  - It takes a minimum of 8 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.
A Great Smoky Mountains hiking 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 younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Great Smoky Mountains hiking 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.
Solo rooms are the standard on this trip. Privacy included, no sharing required! All rooms feature king or queen beds, all with private bathrooms.

In case you’re coming with someone and you’d like to share a room, let us know before booking—there’s a special discount!
Vegetarian options for this trip are available but may be more limited than you are used to. If you are concerned about having enough protein during your trip, plan to bring some plant-based protein sources such as nut butter, instant dried hummus, or high-protein energy bars. If you cannot eat gluten or if you have other dietary restrictions i.e. vegan, you will need to bring some supplemental food with you.
The starting point of your Great Smoky Mountains hiking tour is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. To get there, most people fly into Knoxville Airport, also known as McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS).

Once you’re at the Knoxville Airport, you will meet your guide there at noon, and then you’re going to be transferred to the park.

If you’re driving,plan to meet the guides at the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic parking lot (south side) by 2pm.
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 90 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 89 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 90 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled 60-89 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 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 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 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.

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