Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 2-day backpacking trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (2 days of hiking) Accommodation for 1 night at a backcountry camp in two-person tents (you can have a tent to yourself or share with another participant to lighten your pack, at no extra cost) All meals, distributed the morning of the trip: your pick of lightweight, backpacking-friendly dehydrated meals, snacks, and drinks, coffee included Personal backpacking gear: backpack, tent, trekking poles, and sleeping pad Shared group equipment divided among the group: stoves, water filters, first aid supplies, and bathroom kits Gear fitting and distribution with your guide before you hit the trail A detailed, route-specific packing list and water guidelines sent after booking Not included: Transportation to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Pre-trip lodging near the trailhead Personal items listed in the “What do I need to bring?” section, including your sleeping bag, clothing, rain gear, footwear, headlamp, mess kit, water bottles, and personal medication Anything not mentioned in the ‘Included’ section above Insurance — recommended, available at checkout Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to join this women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains, good fitness is required as well as no prior backpacking experience , since the trip is built for beginners. The most you’ll hike within a day is up to 9.7 km (6 mi) , while carrying a backpack. It is recommended to have a regular fitness routine in place, and a training plan is provided once booked to help you prepare for the trip. Hiking with a backpack is a fun, but physically challenging experience. The mileage is kept manageable on purpose, so the focus stays on learning the fundamentals rather than racing to camp. You’ll be carrying a pack with your share of the group gear, so being comfortable walking a few miles on uneven, forested trails will make the weekend a lot more fun. Your guides run trips rain or shine, so expect to hike in whatever the mountains hand you. Looking for more inspo? Discover our collection of hiking adventures in US National Parks !

What do I need to bring?

Backpacks, tents, trekking poles, sleeping pads, and all shared group equipment are provided, so your list is short. Once you book, your guide will send a full packing list specific to your trip and dates. Gear: Sleeping bag (a 20-degree bag is recommended in April, May, September, October, and November, as the mountains get chillier than most people expect) Headlamp Mess kit Water bottles or a hydration bladder, 2 liters recommended Clothing & footwear: Hiking boots or shoes One outfit to hike in and one to sleep in (no need for extra changes of clothes) Adequate layers for the weather, avoiding cotton where possible, since cotton stays damp and cold once wet Rain jacket and rain pants Other: Any personal medication Toothbrush and toothpaste, the only toiletry really needed out there Most everyday luxuries can stay at home, so leave the makeup, deodorant, and other products behind. Extra electronics and entertainment aren’t needed either; this is a good chance to disconnect and enjoy two screen-free days. 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: It takes a minimum of 3 people for this women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains to operate. The maximum group size is set at 7 participants . If the minimum number of hikers isn’t met, your guide will reach out within 2 weeks of your trip date. Solo travelers are welcome, and many guests join on their own. You can have a two-person tent to yourself or share with another participant to lighten your pack, at no extra cost either way. Women’s backpacking trips in the Great Smoky Mountains 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 are permitted to join the women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains, 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 tent available?

Yes! Solo travelers can have a two-person tent to themselves at no extra cost, or share one with another solo traveler to lighten their packs. You can note down your preference at checkout.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains is a trailhead inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Bryson City, NC , with the exact location shared with you before your trip. To get there, most people fly into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) From there, you can take public transport or rent a car to reach the trailhead. All meeting points are within about a 2-hour drive of Asheville, NC or Gatlinburg, TN . Note that pre-trip lodging is not included, so plan a night nearby if you’re traveling in the day before.

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.

Hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park | North Carolina

Women’s Only Intro to Backpacking: 2 Days in the Great Smoky Mountains

Name: Women’s Intro to Backpacking in the Smokies
Brand: 57hours
Availability: InStock
Rating: 5 (3 reviews)

2 days | Easy to Moderate | 5.00

From $370 ()

Never carried a pack into the woods before? That’s exactly who this trip is for. Over two days and one night in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we’ll keep the miles gentle, about 6 mi (9.7 km) a day, so you can put your energy into learning the things that actually matter: packing smart, pitching a tent, filtering water, and cooking dinner while the light drops through the trees. The trail follows creeks and waterfalls for much of the way, and the forest here is about as alive as it gets in the eastern US. Small group, women only, and all the big gear provided.

Liza

Founder & Backpacking Guide, Wilderness First Responder

Adventure Highlights

Backpacking, taught properly: You'll learn to set up camp, use your gear, and move through the backcountry with a guide right there beside you
Creeks and waterfalls all day: The route stays close to the water, one of the things that makes the Smokies the Smokies
Show up with very little: Backpacks, tents, poles, sleeping pads, and every meal are provided, so you only pack your personal items

Duration

2 days

Season

May through November

Group size

Up to 7 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Two days, one night, and a maximum of seven of us on the trail. We meet at a trailhead inside the park, within about a two-hour drive of Asheville, NC or Gatlinburg, TN, and the exact spot is shared before your trip. Your guide fits and hands out gear there, then we hike in, roughly 6 mi (9.7 km), and set up camp in the backcountry in two-person tents. Dinner is a backpacking meal cooked together, with coffee in the morning. Day two we break camp and hike out past creeks and waterfalls, with plenty of time to spot wildlife along the way.

Day 1: Meet at the trailhead, fit your gear, and hike in to camp

Meet at the trailhead, fit your gear, and hike in to camp — Hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

We meet at a trailhead inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Bryson City, with the exact spot shared before your trip. First up, your guide fits and hands out gear, backpacks, tents, trekking poles, and sleeping pads, then divides the shared kit like stoves, water filters, and first aid between us. You’ll also pick your food for the trip from a range of lightweight, backpacking-friendly options. Then we shoulder our packs and head in on forested trails, with scenic viewpoints along the way and plenty of time to talk through the basics: pacing, layering, water, and how to use what’s in your pack. At camp, we set up tents together and settle into the backcountry.

Meals: All meals provided
Distance: Up to 6 mi (9.7 km)
Accommodation: Backcountry camping in two-person tents

Day 2: Break camp and hike out past creeks and waterfalls

Break camp and hike out past creeks and waterfalls — Hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Coffee first, then we pack up camp and learn how to break down a site properly and leave it better than we found it. The hike out keeps us close to the water for much of the way, passing creeks and waterfalls that are one of the park’s signature features. Keep your eyes open: the Smokies are famous for their biodiversity, and your guide will help you spot and name what shows up, from birds and insects to deer or elk. We take it at a comfortable pace, with breaks to enjoy the views and wrap up any last questions about gear or planning your next trip. Back at the trailhead, we say our goodbyes.

Meals: All meals provided
Distance: Up to 6 mi (9.7 km)

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Backcountry camping — Hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Lodging & food

Backcountry camping

Our home for the night is a backcountry campsite deep in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with the sound of moving water and rustling trees instead of traffic. You’ll sleep in a two-person tent, and it’s your call whether you keep it to yourself or share with another hiker to lighten your pack, at no extra cost either way. Tents, sleeping pads, backpacks, and trekking poles are all provided, along with shared kit like stoves, water filters, first aid supplies, and bathroom kits, which we split between us before setting off. You bring your own sleeping bag, and your guide helps you fit and pack everything at the trailhead so nothing feels like a guessing game. Note that pre-trip lodging is not included in the cost of this trip.

Trail food

All meals are included and handed out on the morning of the trip, so you know exactly what’s in your pack before we start walking. You’ll pick from a spread of lightweight, backpacking-friendly options: dehydrated meals, snacks, and drinks, coffee included. Dinner cooked on a camp stove after a few miles with a pack on tastes better than it has any right to, and that first hot cup in the morning is a small ceremony in itself. Many dietary needs can be accommodated, though choices are a bit narrower than at home, so flag any allergies or restrictions when you book.

Adventure, packed to go

Women’s Only Intro to Backpacking: 2 Days in the Great Smoky Mountains

Adventure Brochure

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Meet your guides

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

5.00

Liza

Founder & Backpacking Guide, Wilderness First Responder

Liza founded her own guiding company to help people discover the confidence, connection, and joy that come from time outdoors. She believes hiking should feel welcoming and accessible to everyone, whether it’s a first walk on a local trail or a full day in the mountains. Through her trips, she has built a community centered on adventure, education, and encouraging others to step outside their comfort zones. When she’s not leading hikes or planning new trips, you’ll likely find her exploring scenic trails and sharing practical tips that inspire others to get outside.

5.00

Becca

Backpacking Guide, Wilderness First Responder

Becca has been backpacking for more than 15 years, and the Smoky Mountains are her favorite backyard adventure. She loves planning backcountry trips and the sense of accomplishment that comes from exploring the wilderness on foot. Her adventures have taken her from Yosemite National Park to Peru’s Inca Trail and Guatemala’s Camino to Atitlán. Off the trail, Becca is a local teacher who enjoys whitewater kayaking, scuba diving, teaching stained glass, and traveling whenever she gets the chance.

5.00

Gabby

Backpacking Guide, Wilderness First Responder

Gabby has spent years leading hiking groups as an ambassador with Girls Who Hike SC, helping hikers of all experience levels build confidence on the trail. Along the way, she has formed lasting friendships through the outdoors. Outside of guiding, she runs a goatscaping business and works as a journalist, combining her love of storytelling with a passion for serving her community. In her free time, she’s usually exploring the trails of Upstate South Carolina and sharing the beauty of the outdoors with others.

5.00

Alisha

Backpacking Guide, Wilderness First Responder & Leave No Trace Educator

Alisha has spent more than a decade helping people build confidence outdoors through backpacking, hiking, rock climbing, paddling, and outdoor education. She graduated from an outdoor leadership program in Bryson City and brings a calm, encouraging approach to every trip. She especially enjoys sharing what she knows about the edible and medicinal plants of the Southern Appalachians. When she’s not guiding, you’ll find her rock climbing, paddleboarding, or exploring the mountains and rivers of Western North Carolina.

What others say about this adventure

5.00 (3 reviews)

Becki P

Gabby is an amazing guide! As a new backpacker, I had a lot of questions and she made sure they were all answered. My whole experience was great from the beginning to the end. I highly recommend these guides if you want to learn about backpacking or don’t want to hike alone. They provide most of the gear or you can bring your own, either way, you will have an enjoyable experience.

Judy C

Great Smoky Mountains
Have a great time on the overnight backpacking trip with Gabby!

Stephanie S

Overnight trip in the Smokies
Such a great experience. Becca was an amazing guide- patient, helpful, and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend!

Show all reviews

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 2-day backpacking trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (2 days of hiking)
  - Accommodation for 1 night at a backcountry camp in two-person tents (you can have a tent to yourself or share with another participant to lighten your pack, at no extra cost)
  - All meals, distributed the morning of the trip: your pick of lightweight, backpacking-friendly dehydrated meals, snacks, and drinks, coffee included
  - Personal backpacking gear: backpack, tent, trekking poles, and sleeping pad
  - Shared group equipment divided among the group: stoves, water filters, first aid supplies, and bathroom kits
  - Gear fitting and distribution with your guide before you hit the trail
  - A detailed, route-specific packing list and water guidelines sent after booking
Not included:
- - Transportation to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  - Pre-trip lodging near the trailhead
  - Personal items listed in the “What do I need to bring?” section, including your sleeping bag, clothing, rain gear, footwear, headlamp, mess kit, water bottles, and personal medication
  - Anything not mentioned in the ‘Included’ section above
  - Insurance — recommended, available at checkout
  - Guide gratuities — optional
In order to join this women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains, good fitness is required as well as no prior backpacking experience, since the trip is built for beginners. The most you’ll hike within a day is up to 9.7 km (6 mi), while carrying a backpack. It is recommended to have a regular fitness routine in place, and a training plan is provided once booked to help you prepare for the trip. Hiking with a backpack is a fun, but physically challenging experience.

The mileage is kept manageable on purpose, so the focus stays on learning the fundamentals rather than racing to camp. You’ll be carrying a pack with your share of the group gear, so being comfortable walking a few miles on uneven, forested trails will make the weekend a lot more fun. Your guides run trips rain or shine, so expect to hike in whatever the mountains hand you.

Looking for more inspo? Discover our collection of hiking adventures in US National Parks!
Backpacks, tents, trekking poles, sleeping pads, and all shared group equipment are provided, so your list is short. Once you book, your guide will send a full packing list specific to your trip and dates.

Gear:
- - Sleeping bag (a 20-degree bag is recommended in April, May, September, October, and November, as the mountains get chillier than most people expect)
  - Headlamp
  - Mess kit
  - Water bottles or a hydration bladder, 2 liters recommended
Clothing & footwear:
- - Hiking boots or shoes
  - One outfit to hike in and one to sleep in (no need for extra changes of clothes)
  - Adequate layers for the weather, avoiding cotton where possible, since cotton stays damp and cold once wet
  - Rain jacket and rain pants
Other:
- - Any personal medication
  - Toothbrush and toothpaste, the only toiletry really needed out there
Most everyday luxuries can stay at home, so leave the makeup, deodorant, and other products behind. Extra electronics and entertainment aren’t needed either; this is a good chance to disconnect and enjoy two screen-free days.

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:
- - It takes a minimum of 3 people for this women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains to operate. The maximum group size is set at 7 participants.
  - If the minimum number of hikers isn’t met, your guide will reach out within 2 weeks of your trip date.
  - Solo travelers are welcome, and many guests join on their own. You can have a two-person tent to yourself or share with another participant to lighten your pack, at no extra cost either way.
  - Women’s backpacking trips in the Great Smoky Mountains 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 are permitted to join the women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains, 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.
Yes! Solo travelers can have a two-person tent to themselves at no extra cost, or share one with another solo traveler to lighten their packs. You can note down your preference at checkout.
The starting point of your women’s backpacking trip in the Great Smoky Mountains is a trailhead inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Bryson City, NC, with the exact location shared with you before your trip. To get there, most people fly into Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) From there, you can take public transport or rent a car to reach the trailhead.

All meeting points are within about a 2-hour drive of Asheville, NC or Gatlinburg, TN. Note that pre-trip lodging is not included, so plan a night nearby if you’re traveling in the day before.
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.
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.
- 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.
- Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48 hours grace period.

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