need help: BSF or Smokies

**ikemouser** · 03-09-2010, 14:39

Hi everybody. I live in the SE part of the country(usa) and am planning a trip for july. I have been to big south fork already, done a 40 mile loop there and loved it. What you need to know is that i am bringing my little brother(15 years old) who has never been hiking, but plays sports on a regular basis-probably in better shape than me. We are both skinny guys, and always have been. Anyway, i estimate our packs to be in the 22-25lb range when carrying maxium food and water at the start of the trip.

I need advice on whether a noobie can handle the smokies or should i opt for the easier BSF. I want him to have a great time and make memories that will last a lifetime, so i want it to be as scenic as possible.

So i said last time i did a 40 mile loop, and it was not difficult for me. I think it should be about the same for him. So, open to advice/recommendations on choosing a destination. What is the difficulty of the smokies like, i know there is alot of elevation change fast, but i like some height in the trail to get those good views. thanks everybody

**aBRG2far** · 03-09-2010, 14:47

You shouldn't have any problems with a 40 mile loop under your belt. You can pick and choose the type of terrain you want to hike here in the Smokies. In July I would stick to the higher elevations starting off from Newfound Gap that way its either somewhat level or all downhill.

**ikemouser** · 03-09-2010, 15:03

For me downhill is often worse than uphill, the continuous pounding on the foot and the friction of the foot sliding in the shoe, honestly i would prefer uphill because of my light body weight. Thanks for recommending newfound gap though, definately looking into it.

**bdpalace** · 03-09-2010, 15:13

If you are going to the Smokies, you need to plan early and make your campsite reservations ASAP. They will allow you to make them up to 3 months prior to your arrival and I would highly recommend making them as close to that as possible because they fill up fast.

**ikemouser** · 03-09-2010, 15:15

Originally Posted by bdpalace

If you are going to the Smokies, you need to plan early and make your campsite reservations ASAP. They will allow you to make them up to 3 months prior to your arrival and I would highly recommend making them as close to that as possible because they fill up fast.

why do i need a campsite? i have a hammock.

**bdpalace** · 03-09-2010, 15:25

There are a lot of restrictions on backpacking/camping in the Smokies (which is why I don't frequent there)...you are required to have a backpacking permit and sleep in a designated campsite (there are several backcountry campsites to choose from). The only exception is for those hiking the AT and they are sequestered to the Shelters and surrounding areas. My buddies and I went down there with no knowledge of the requirements and were run off the trail by a park ranger when he saw the backpacks and no permit.

If you are planning on stealthing, good luck, but I would hate for you to get in trouble with "the Man" if you got caught and have your trip cut short.

Check this site for info:
http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisi...ry-camping.htm

**aBRG2far** · 03-09-2010, 15:26

Because you'll be fined if caught not camping in a designated campsite and not all campsites need reservations.

**bdpalace** · 03-09-2010, 15:38

Originally Posted by aBRG2far

not all campsites need reservations.

That's good to know. My apologies for misleading...

Here's a map and key for all the campsites:
http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisi...ntry%20Map.pdf

**ikemouser** · 03-09-2010, 16:19

Seems kind of authoritarian for a national park.

**Ewker** · 03-09-2010, 18:56

Originally Posted by bdpalace

If you are going to the Smokies, you need to plan early and make your campsite reservations ASAP. They will allow you to make them up to 3 months prior to your arrival .

you can only call 30 days ahead of time for sites that need resevations.