Included: An experienced hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 3-day Smoky Mountains kayak tour Gear: Backpack, tent, sleeping bag + pad (you are welcome to bring your own if you want) Meals: All dinners and breakfasts Some snacks (bring your own to supplement) Accommodation: 2 nights of camping Shuttle from the meeting location to starting trailhead All permits and parking tags Water filter, first aid kit, stove and fuel Hiking poles Not included: Flights Transportation before and after the trip Meals not indicated in the itinerary Personal items Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — optional

How fit do I need to be?

This Smoky Mountains kayak tour is great for beginner backpackers and intermediate paddlers. Participants should be capable of hiking 3-5 hours and up to 10 km (6 mi) each day, and paddling up to 8 km (5 mi) on Day 1 and Day 3, with as much as 457 m (1,500 ft ) elevation gain and 640 m (2,100 ft) elevation loss. Expect steep, rocky, rooty, wet, and uneven terrain with possible stream crossings. Participants will be carrying their own backpacks weighing 13.6-15.9 kg (30-35 pounds) on Day 1 and Day 3, and just carrying daily hiking necessities on Day 2. For more Appalachian trail tours, click here !

What’s the food like?

The 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 Smoky Mountains 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. A Smoky Mountains 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 younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Smoky Mountains 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 Smoky Mountains 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 at the Fontana Dam Visitors Center.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their 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. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK | NORTH CAROLINA

Hiking and Kayaking Adventure in the Smoky Mountains, North Carolina

5.00

From $1,199 ()

Duration

3 days

Season

June through September

Accommodation

Standard: Backpacking tents, sleeping pads and sleeping bags

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Reviews
Things to know

Your phone? Won’t need it. Your worries? Won’t miss ‘em. This adventure is all about getting off the grid and into the Smokies—kayaking across Fontana Lake, trekking through remote trails, and sleeping under an explosion of stars. We’re talking campfire laughs, lakeside swims, and hikes that lead to places most people will never see. History buffs? You’ll love the hidden homesteads. Nature lovers? Welcome to paradise. Three days of adventure, one massive reset button. If you’re ready to swap the daily grind for some paddles, peaks, and peace, grab your gear—we’re heading out!

Adventure highlights

Step into the past

Hike through history, discovering long-lost homesteads and forgotten trails
Kayak the wild side

Paddle across Fontana Lake, where glassy waters and towering peaks set the scene
Backcountry basecamp

Sleep in the heart of the Smokies, surrounded by nothing but nature

Itinerary

Download itinerary

We’re trading roads for waterways and hotels for a backcountry basecamp. First up—paddling across Fontana Lake, where misty peaks tower over glassy waters. We’ll pull up to our remote campsite, stash the boats, and hit the trails—because the Smokies aren’t just seen, they’re explored. We’ll hike through deep forest, past forgotten homesteads, and into the kind of wilderness that makes us forget what day it is. Afternoons mean lakeside swims, evenings bring campfire laughs, and every night, the stars put on a show. Three days off-grid, all in on adventure!

Our adventure kicks off at 9am with an orientation at the Fontana Lake Visitors Center, where we’ll go over gear, safety, and what to expect over the next few days. After getting everything squared away, we’ll head to the marina and launch our kayaks into the serene waters of Fontana Lake. As we paddle deeper into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we’ll hear the fascinating story of Fontana Dam—how it transformed the landscape and became the tallest dam in the East.

By midday, we’ll arrive at our remote backcountry site, set up camp, and secure our gear before heading back to the lake for a refreshing swim. With the mountains rising around us and the water sparkling in the afternoon light, it’s the perfect start to an unforgettable adventure.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
After a peaceful night under the stars, we’ll fuel up with a hearty breakfast before lacing up our boots for a full day of hiking. Our route takes us deep into one of the most remote corners of the Park, where few visitors venture. Along the way, we’ll uncover remnants of old homesteads, overgrown rail lines, and traces of the people who once called this wilderness home.

With a mix of shaded trails, gentle climbs, and sweeping ridge views, this hike offers a taste of the Smokies’ rich history and rugged beauty. By mid-afternoon, we’ll make our way back to camp for another dip in the lake and some relaxed paddling before dinner around the campfire.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Camping
We’ll start the day with a short morning hike, letting the cool mountain air wake us up as we stretch our legs one last time. Then, it’s time to break down camp and pack up our gear before paddling back across the lake. The return trip gives us a final chance to soak in the stunning scenery, spot wildlife along the shore, and reflect on the past few days in the backcountry. By midday, we’ll pull into the marina, say our goodbyes, and start dreaming about the next adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

Hiking and Kayaking Adventure in the Smoky Mountains, North Carolina

Adventure Brochure

Brochure sent, check your inbox

If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guides

5.00

Jack Lloyd

Jack Lloyd 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.

5.00

China Whitmire

China Whitmire, a Chattanooga native, spent 15 years in Chicago working in non-profit theater and higher education upon completing her undergraduate studies at the University of Chicago. In 2021, China returned to her Appalachian roots by thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail. Now, leveraging her skills, China brings a unique blend of creativity and expertise to her role as a guide. Her love of storytelling and connection with the southern Appalachian region ultimately led her to A Walk in the Woods.

5.00

A Walk in the Woods

Founded in 1998, A Walk In The Woods is an award-winning tour guide service. Emphasizing the teaching of natural history, A Walk In The Woods offers spectacular trips into the incredible biodiversity of the Smokies. Every tour features highly-trained guides, all experts in local biodiversity, history, and survival knowledge. This ensures that the adventures are safe, educational, and most importantly, fun!

5.00(3 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.

Rosalind Keppler

Wonderful guides who are knowledgeable on the intricate plants and animals and history. They make it personal and magical.

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.

Rosalind Keppler

Wonderful guides who are knowledgeable on the intricate plants and animals and history. They make it personal and magical.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 3-day Smoky Mountains kayak tour
  - Gear: Backpack, tent, sleeping bag + pad (you are welcome to bring your own if you want)
  - Meals: All dinners and breakfasts
  - Some snacks (bring your own to supplement)
  - Accommodation: 2 nights of camping
  - Shuttle from the meeting location to starting trailhead
  - All permits and parking tags
  - Water filter, first aid kit, stove and fuel
  - Hiking poles
Not included:
- - Flights
  - Transportation before and after the trip
  - Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  - Personal items
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
This Smoky Mountains kayak tour is great for beginner backpackers and intermediate paddlers. Participants should be capable of hiking 3-5 hours and up to 10 km (6 mi) each day, and paddling up to 8 km (5 mi) on Day 1 and Day 3, with as much as 457 m (1,500 ft) elevation gain and 640 m (2,100 ft) elevation loss.

Expect steep, rocky, rooty, wet, and uneven terrain with possible stream crossings. Participants will be carrying their own backpacks weighing 13.6-15.9 kg (30-35 pounds) on Day 1 and Day 3, and just carrying daily hiking necessities on Day 2.

For more Appalachian trail tours, click here!
The 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.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Smoky Mountains 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.
A Smoky Mountains 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 younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Smoky Mountains 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 Smoky Mountains 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 at the Fontana Dam Visitors Center.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their 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.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
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.