Great Smokey Mountains in October

[ZMad2000]

I am planning a trip in late October with my girlfriend. Was wondering if you guys could give me some info about the weather and what to expect hammock camping there. Thanks guys.

[daveb]

Hiking from Newfound gap to Davenport gap in a three day span we had sunny and 60's, snow showers in the 30's and back to sunny and 60's. The nights were all in the 30's.

I wasn't hammock camping then so I'm not sure of the park rules although that was my last trip on the ground.

It's a beautiful hike!

[Mr. Jowee]

daveb Sais he hiked from Newfound Gap to Davenport Gap, so I'm assuming he did the northwest portion of the AT. You're required to stay in shelters along the AT, so I don't knot if you'd be allowed to even use a hammock. The southern portion of the park (south of the AT) sees fewer visitors, or so I've heard.

[O-Boy]

You can use your hammock on any of the hundreds of miles of trails within the GSMNP, you just have to have a permit and camp in the Park's campsites. The sites all have cables and pullies to hang your food bags, most have picnic tables all have fire rings and water sources. No shelters or privies. I was up there is past spring. Call the Park Headquarters, number is on their Website and speak to the Ranger at the Backcountry desk for all necessary information and permits. They are very helpful and even have answers and comments that you probably didn't know you had questions for!
Have fun and keep warm!!! The weather is always a mixed bag up there.

[Tnoutback]

I was up there 3-4 years ago last weekend in October and there was snow above 3500 feet and temp at Newfound Gap was 24 with a wind speed to match! Park service closed the road over the mountains.