Planning a hike in the Smokies - mixed feelings

[trippclark]

I've been section hiking the AT for 14 years now (Springer to Tyringham, MA) and a few years ago started back over with a second sequential hike northward (for those times when I cannot afford a long enough trip to drive up north). I am planning the next leg of that second sequential hike for early May and I will be hiking in the Smokies (Fontana to Newfound Gap). On the one hand, I am looking forward to revisiting this beautiful park. I have fond memories of hiking there over a decade ago. On the other hand, I am bummed about the requirement to stay in the shelters. I have not had to go to ground on any hiking or camping trip since 2004. I hate to break this streak to sleep on a hard shelter floor and do battle with the mice.

[TallPaul]

Good to hear from you again trippclark

I feel the same way about the Smokies - I'd almost rather sleep at spots without shelters just so I can use my hammock.

Let us know how it goes.

[CeeVee]

You could try the BMT it's route is just above the lake and has campsites

[Dos]

the rangers never hassled me about using my hammock.
I was with the same small pack of guys through the Smokies.
There was the intermittent group that contained a father with 6 teenagers that were pretty much
a PIA, so the ranger didn't mind my hammocking in the area.
But, some can be not so lenient.
I think they have fees as of last year
and the whole reservation thing....ugh....