De qué se trata
This group is for anyone interested in backpacking. ALL skills levels are WELCOME. This group is primarily overnight/multi-day backpacking adventures... with possibly some social gathering for members throughout the year \
\
. . \
. We want everyone who attends our Meetup trips to have a great time! Of course, being sore will inevitably be part of it sometimes ;). So, to help ensure this, there are a couple “ground rules” to follow. \
. . \
. - No drugs permitted on group trips. If anyone is found using these, they will be removed from the group. \
. . \
- Act responsibly/Safety first. Do not put yourself, or others in danger while on group outings. \
. . \
- Be respectful/Courteous. Everyone has different skill levels and/or methods. We all have lots to learn from, and teach others. We can do this in a polite, respectful manner. Acting in a belligerent way towards others will not be tolerated. \
. . \
- Know your capability. Please do not sign up to attend trips that are outside your capability. While we only truly grow when we push ourselves past our “comfort zone”, you should understand which trips you can confidently push yourself to handle, and which ones you should pass on until another time...
- Use and keep your RSVP current. Some trips have a size limit. If you sign up for a trip and for whatever reason cannot make it, please update your RSVP so people on the waitlist can join/attend. No shows on trips may not affect you, but they affect the group, so please keep your RSVP’s current.
There will be trips through out the year of various intensities for different skill levels. The host will give a brief description of each trip and the level of intensity.
ADVANCED/STRENUOUS Trips: These more advanced trips will typically require the host speaking with each of you about the demands of the route.
Let's Have Fun ! So grab your gear, sign up, and let’s hit the trail !!
Próximos eventos (1)
Ver todo- AT Section Hike: Fontana Dam to Kuwohi (Clingman's Dome)Kuwohi parking lot, Cherokee, NC
Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike: Fontana Dam to Kuwohi (Clingman's Dome)
Event Dates: October 10-12, 2025
Group Limit: 6-8 people
Location: 35.55637723483931, -83.49520401775008 (end of Kuwohi/Clingman's Dome Road)This is a strenuous 3-day, 2-night backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail (AT) through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The itinerary is designed for above-average backpackers, covering approximately 33 miles with significant and consistent elevation changes each day. A good level of fitness and backpacking experience is required.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Fontana Dam to Mollies Ridge Shelter- Distance: 10.8 miles / Elevation: 5,000' ascent, 2,055' descent / Estimate: 6.25 hours
- A solid first day with a substantial climb out of Fontana Dam, designed to get the group into a steady hiking rhythm.
Day 2: Mollies Ridge Shelter to Derrick Knob Shelter
- Distance: 11.9 miles / Elevation: 3,500' ascent, 3,200' descent / Estimate: 5.75 hours
- Another consistent day of hiking along the ridgeline, with a well-balanced mix of climbs and descents.
Day 3: Derrick Knob Shelter to Kuwohi (Clingman's Dome) Parking Lot
- Distance: 10.3 miles / Elevation: 3,371' ascent, 2,008' descent / Estimate: 5.25 hours
- The final day is a significant push to the highest point on the Appalachian Trail, followed by a short walk to the parking area.
Cost & Reservations:
- Campsite Fee: The cost for the two nights of shelter reservations will be $16 per person ($8/night). This fee is non-refundable.
- Shuttle Fee: The shuttle fee is estimated to be around $45 per person (based on one quote), it could be more or less.
Payment Process:
- Upon joining the event, you will be placed on a waiting list.
- Approximately one week (9/5) before the park reservations open, I will vet and contact those on the waiting list in the order they joined.
- To secure your spot, you must pay me the $16 campsite fee at that time or I will pass you up for the next in line. I will then make the official shelter reservations.
- Once the camping reservations are confirmed, I will finalize the shuttle. You will pay the shuttle fee in cash directly to the driver at the time of service.
Important Notes:
- Meet-up Time & Location: We will meet on October 10, 2025, at 6:45 AM sharp at the Kuwohi (Clingman's Dome) parking lot 35.55637723483931, -83.49520401775008
- Shuttle Information: The shuttle ride to the trailhead at Fontana Dam will take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. The plan is to leave at 7:00 AM.
- Shelter-Only Trip: We will be staying in the designated backcountry shelters. Tents and hammocks are not needed.
- Bear Safety: Bear cables are provided at each designated shelter for food storage.
- Dogs are not permitted in Great Smoky Mountains National Park on this trail.
- Parking Pass: A parking pass is required to park in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will need to purchase a pass for three days or a weekly pass. You will need to purchase your own pass online at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm#basics and PRINT it out ahead of time to display it in your dash.
- Know Your Abilities: This is a difficult hike with some strenuous sections. Please be honest with yourself about your ability to handle the distance and elevation gain.
Disclaimers:
- Hike organizers are in no way responsible for you, your health, or safety. By attending this event, you acknowledge that the organizers assume no liability for you or your gear.
- Ensure you are prepared with the appropriate gear and skills for a challenging multi-day backpacking trip, as you will be responsible for your own needs on the trail.
- We will hike together as a group, but all participants must be capable of navigating independently and should be prepared to stay with the group.
