Great Smoky Mts NP Readies for Overcrowding in Thru-Hike Season

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.