Smokies

Next to the water you drink, this trail guide is the most essential tool for enjoying the Smokies. Compiled by over a dozen area experts, it contains not only the most accurate topographical measurements but also the stories behind the trails. A perfect companion for enjoying the 800+ miles of trails in our National Park. Click here to see inside this wonderful guide.

Great gift!

Nestled on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina (and less than an hours’ drive from ETO!), ridge of diverse ridge of ancient forest flows through the mountains and valleys, a special space we call the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Welcome to one of the treasures of America.

Dense natural fog - humid air from the Gulf - often hangs over the range like a large plume of smoke.
Densest black bear population and most diverse salamander population outside the tropics.
Home of 78 preserved and maintained structures throughout the valleys and coves, displaying old Appalachian culture and communities.

Getting your backcountry permit is easy, free, and takes just a second. There are two ways to obtain your permit:

1. Self-register at any ranger station and most campgrounds. Simply follow the instructions posted. This only applies for shelters which are not rationed (see Note at #2 below).

2.Register via phone with Backcountry Reservations (865) 436-1231. Open seven days a week, 8am-6pm.
You can call up to a month ahead of time!
Note! Some sites have rationed occupancy because of heavy use. If you want to visit one of these sites, you must call and register. The following sites are rationed:

Campsites #10, 13, 23, 24, 29, 36, 37, 38 ,47, 50, 55, 57, 61, 71, 83. All shelters are rationed.

Be sure to read all rules and regulations before you leave, and always try to leave the Park a better place than how you found it. For more information about the backcountry, call (865) 436-1297 or visit the National Park Service website at www.nps.gov/grsm.

When visiting our National Park, plan ahead and prepare. When you’re there, enjoy, respecting the wildlife, leaving what you find, and leaving not a single trace behind.

Featuring more traces of the old Appalachian community than anywhere else in the park, you’ll see chimneys, rock walls, remnants of old structures, and beautiful flora stretched across the entire trail’s length. Makes for a challenging two-day backpacking journey when linked with the Maddron Bald Trail.

Trail Length: 15.8 miles. Some hills, some stream crossings. Historic rewards around every corner.

How to Get There: Take US 3215.9 miles East of Gatlinburg. Turn onto Greenbriar Road at Park entrance sign, go past the ranger station. Turn at road leading across the bridge to Ramsey Cascades trailhead, cross two bridges, and the Old Settlers trailhead is on the left.

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