April 18 - 22 Fontana to Smokemont

[PapaGarrettP]

Howdy!

My Friend (his trail name) and I going to do this section in about three weeks. Very excited; got my back country permit in GSMNP.

Anyone else going to be in the woods at this time?

Anyone got any opinions about how the water is running, trail conditions, weather pattern?

I expect to see a lot of downed trees after the rough winter!

Thanks!

PapaGarrettP

[HooKooDooKu]

From what I've been experiencing, you won't have any issues finding water... but you might want to make sure you take along some good creek crossing shoes. From what I've experienced in GSMNP on my last two hikes this year, water has not been lacking. There's been plenty of rain, and everytime I look at the forecast, more rain is coming.

So plan to get wet either from rain or creek crossings. If you're prepared for that, you'll be good to go.