Skip to content

Guided Backpacking Trips in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Multi-Day Backcountry Adventures Near Gatlinburg

Step deeper into the Great Smoky Mountains with a professionally guided backpacking trip designed for safety, structure, and immersive wilderness experience — along the Appalachian Trail and beyond.

These are not casual overnight hikes. These are structured, professionally led backcountry experiences.

Explore the Backcountry Your Way

Small group and private backpacking trips tailored to your ability and goals.

Your guide manages permits, route planning, weather monitoring, and risk — you focus on the experience.

Intro to Intermediate Backpacking 1-2 Nights

Beginner to intermediate, perfect for first-time backpackers, couples, and active beginners

Moderate mileage with structured instruction
Permit management included
Full gear consultation
Wildlife safety protocols
Appalachian Trail
Small group or private format
Synchronized lighting bug option
Mother/daughter and father/son options
Featured
Intermediate to Advanced 2-3 Nights

Ideal for fit beginners - advanced backpackers seeking higher mileage, elevation, solitude and great adventure

Longer mileage, more remote camps
High elevation ridgelines
Waterfall routes
Custom advanced routes available
Appalachian trail option
Backcountry fire tower lookouts

WHY CHOOSE A GUIDED BACKPACKING TRIP

The Smokies have over 850 miles of trails, rapidly changing weather, limited cell coverage, and active wildlife. Without proper preparation it can quickly become overwhelming.

Right Route

Selected based on your ability, fitness, and scenic priorities

Wildlife Safety

Strict bear protocols, food storage, and campsite management

Weather Management

Continuous monitoring with built-in safety margin

Professionally Certified

Wilderness First Aid, CPR, and emergency decision-making

FAQs About Our Small Group Tours

Do I need backpacking experience?

No. We offer beginner-friendly trips with full instruction built in.

Are permits included?

Yes. We manage all required backcountry permits.

How physically demanding is it?

Trips are matched to your ability and fitness level — we tailor the route to you.

What if weather changes?

We monitor conditions daily and adjust routes when necessary. Safety margin always comes first.

Is this private or group?

Both private and small group options are available.

Into the Backcountry

What to Expect

Before Your Trip

  • Gear consultation and packing list
  • Permit management
  • Weather and route planning
  • Clear meeting location instructions

During Your Trip

  • Professional guide leadership
  • Daily risk assessment
  • Wildlife food storage enforcement
  • Structured pace and fatigue management
  • Emergency evacuation planning

After Your Trip

  • Recommendations for additional Smoky Mountain experiences
  • Dining and activity suggestions

We keep it organized. We keep it safe. We keep it intentional.

Ready to Explore the Backcountry?

Experience the Smokies beyond the overlooks and crowded trailheads.

Contact us to plan your trip and we’ll match the route to your ability.

Smoky Mountain Guides has been featured on

PinClipart.com_free-job-clip-art_2123767
TC_transparent_BF Logo_L_2024_RGB
Travel_Channel
Travel+Mindset
ece09f7c36744c8fa1a1437cfc0e485a-hd

Affiliations and Corporate Mentions

bushs-best-logo
Mars-Logo
PNGPIX-COM-Alcoa-Logo-PNG-Transparent
225d4cf12a6e9da6996dc3d47250e4de
Enpro_Industries_logo.svg