Great Smoky Mts NP Readies for Overcrowding in Thru-Hike Season
Last year the park hosted a record-breaking number of Appalachian Trail hikers.
Get full access to Outside Learn, our online education hub featuring in-depth fitness, nutrition, and adventure courses and more than 2,000 instructional videos when you sign up for Outside+ Sign up for Outside+ today.
Last year, a record-breaking 4,400 Appalachian Trail thru-hikers passed through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, raising concerns about overcrowding in the park’s shelters and campsites. A park spokeswoman advises prospective hikers to consider alternative trips, including southbound or section hiking, to help spread out the impact.