Smoky Mountains Wilderness Basecamp
Four days in the Smokies — hiking mountain trails, rafting wild rivers, and evenings at our wilderness basecamp.
Experience the Great Smoky Mountains from a private wilderness basecamp.
This four-day adventure is designed for travelers who want to explore the beauty of the Smoky Mountains while enjoying the comfort of returning to the same welcoming basecamp each evening. Each day we head out on guided hikes through forests, ridgelines, and mountain valleys before returning to basecamp for shared meals and relaxation.
The final day brings an exciting change of pace as the adventure shifts from trail to river and canopy with whitewater rafting and ziplining through the Smoky Mountain forest.
A Landscape of Ancient Forest
The Great Smoky Mountains protect more than 520,000 acres of rugged Appalachian terrain, making it one of the largest protected wilderness landscapes in the eastern United States.
These mountains are famous for their:
- mist-covered ridgelines
- ancient hardwood forests
- mountain streams and waterfalls
- extraordinary biodiversity
Our wilderness basecamp sits within easy reach of this remarkable landscape, allowing us to explore different sections of the Smokies each day while returning to a comfortable and secluded mountain setting each evening.
The Basecamp Experience
Unlike traditional backpacking trips where campsites move each night, this adventure uses a central wilderness basecamp as the hub for the entire trip.
Each morning we head into the Smoky Mountains with light daypacks, exploring scenic trails and mountain landscapes without carrying full overnight gear.
The experience includes:
- guided day hikes through Smoky Mountain forests and ridgelines
- exploration of scenic trails and hidden valleys
- a whitewater rafting adventure on a mountain river
- a zipline experience through the forest canopy
- evenings spent relaxing at a private wilderness basecamp
This format provides the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and time to connect with the mountains and with fellow travelers.
Quick Facts
Location: Great Smoky Mountains
Duration: 4 Days
Group Size: 4-12 Participants
Total Mileage: 20-25 Miles
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Terrain: Deep Forest, Forested Ridgeline, Creek Systems
Fitness Level: Active / Intermediate
Cost: From $2,099
Smoky Mountains Wilderness Basecamp Expedition Overview
Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Meet your guides and fellow traveling companions this morning in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. After introductions and a trip orientation we’ll hop aboard our provided shuttle for a quick transfer to our first trailhead. The Cucumber Gap Loop is a perfect introduction to the rich biodiversity, beauty, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. This hike takes place along an old logging railroad that passes old homesteads and small waterfalls. Plenty of small stream crossings enliven our walk. At the end of the day, our friendly camp host welcomes us to Signature Camp where we enjoy a barbecue dinner around a roaring campfire. All meals included.
Hiking: 5.4 miles, Elevation gain/loss: +800’/-800′; Transfers: 1.5 hours
Hike the AT in route to breathtaking views at the summit of Mount Cammerer
After a tasty backcountry breakfast, we transfer to Low Gap Trailhead for an out-and-back hike to the summit of Mount Cammerer. A series of switchbacks climbs 2,000 feet through beautiful hardwood forest before joining the famous Appalachian Trail. We let the famous white blaze lead the way as our guides share stories of intrepid travelers who have hiked the over 2,000 miles of trail from Springer Mountain, GA to Mount Katahdin, ME. Our reward is the summit of Mount Cammerer, with its 360-degree views of the majestic Smoky Mountains. Our day finishes at our comfortable Signature Camp where we enjoy another scrumptious dinner. All meals included.
Hiking: 11 miles; 3,000′ elevation gain/loss; Transfers: 1 hours
Explore historical artifacts and climb to a mountain vista
Our mission today is to explore a unique section of trails; home to the largest collection of human artifacts in the National Park system. Walk along a beautiful mountain stream through an old growth forest. Climb to one of the most picturesque mountain vistas with expansive views of breathtaking rock formations. Our celebration of this spectacular region continues as we head back for a tasty meal around a roaring campfire. We’ll spend our final evening together sharing stories and reflecting on our last few days of adventure. All meals included.
Hiking: 4.5-6 miles; 1,000-1,500′ elevation gain and loss; Transfers: 2 hours
Soar along a mountaintop zipline and float down the beautiful Nantahala River
An approximately two hour drive gets us to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. The NOC is a mecca for outdoor adventure and located at the intersection of the Appalachian Trail and the Nantahala River. After three days of exploring on foot, we take to the air to experience the park from above. We soar mountaintop to mountaintop along two adrenaline pumping miles of premier zip-line. Next we load into whitewater rafts to enjoy a fun, Class II and III ride down the scenic Nantahala River. After rounding out our exploration of the Great Smoky Mountains by land, sky and water we make our way back to Gatlinburg. We expect to arrive back in Gatlinburg early this evening. Breakfast and lunch included.
Inclement weather may impact the accessibility of the zip-lining course. If this is the case, we may substitute the NOC’s adventure rope course for the zip-lining activity. In the event of lightening all aerial courses will be closed.
Zip-lining: 2 miles; Time: 2-3 hours; Whitewater Rafting: 8 miles; Time: 3 hours; Transfers: 4 hours
Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. This trip is operated rain or shine.
Why Basecamp in the Smokies
The Smoky Mountains contain more than 850 miles of hiking trails, offering access to an incredible range of landscapes and ecosystems.
A basecamp format allows participants to experience multiple areas of the park while maintaining the comfort and ease of returning to the same location each night.
This creates a relaxed but immersive way to explore one of the most remarkable mountain landscapes in North America.
Participant Experience
Your Expedition Leadership
Every expedition is led by professionals with decades of combined field experience across the Southern Appalachians and beyond. Our leaders know these landscapes intimately—from seasonal weather patterns and trail conditions to water sources and emergency exit routes—and plan each trip accordingly. All guides are trained in wilderness risk management, decision-making under changing conditions, and group safety protocols, ensuring trips that are thoughtful, well-paced, and grounded in professional judgment rather than improvisation.
Inclusions
- Professional Guide Leadership
- Permits & Logistics
- Pre-Trip Planning Support
- Expedition Briefing Materials
- Gear Rental as Needed
- Breakfasts, Lunches, Dinners, Snacks
- Transportation Throughout Trip
- Small Group Format
Exclusions
- Personal Items (toiletries, clothing)
- Prefered Comfort Food / Snacks
- Gratuity for Your Guide
- Airport Transfer
- Lodging before/after Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
Trip members should be capable of hiking 5-8 hours each day (up to 11 miles) with as much as 2,700′ elevation gain and loss. Zip-lining is suitable for beginners. Weight ranges for zip-lining are 60 pounds minimum and 250 pounds maximum. Rafting is suitable for beginners although comfort in/around water is recommended. Rafting is on rapids classified II-III whitewater.
Weather is an inherent part of wilderness travel, and itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind. Trip leaders monitor forecasts closely and make real-time adjustments to routes, pacing, or daily objectives as needed. In the event of severe conditions, alternative plans or modified activities may be implemented to maintain safety without compromising the overall experience.
$100 per person of trip total amount is a non-refundable deposit. Due to the planning involved in backpacking trips, we require a 45 day cancellation. A refund will be provided for cancellations up to 45 days prior to arrival, less the $100 deposit. Cancellations between 44 and 30 days of your trip will be refunded half of the full trip charge. No refunds for cancellations with less than a 30 day notice, however, we will extend a 25% discount on a future trip to be taken within a one year period. If the guide cancels your trip due to hazardous weather conditions prior to starting the trip, you will be refunded the full trip price excluding the deposit. If the guide or a member of another group on the trip ends the trip early, you will be refunded a prorated portion of the cost. If we begin the trip and you or anyone in your group decides to end the trip early for any reason, there will be no refund. There are NO EXCEPTIONS to our cancellation policy. We are not responsible for medical or family emergencies. If you need to be evacuated for any reason, you will be responsible for the cost. Transportation costs can range from $75 to $300 depending on where you are at the time of the evacuation. If staff needs to hike in to hike you out or assist in an evacuation, you will be responsible for the cost.
We encourage you to research travel insurance services to best meet your needs if you must cancel or interrupt your trip due to unforeseen circumstances. Trip Assure offers insurance for our overnight trips. Trip Assure provides plans with benefits to protect the cost of your travel arrangements; your belongings; and most importantly, you, in case your trip gets disrupted. Please see the following link for more information: Trip Insurance with Trip Assure **Note: This cancellation policy excludes Cascades and Canopies | Smoky Mountain Experience, Peaks to Pools | Backpacking and Paddling Multisport and Smokies Lake Paddle and Basecamp
Hikes range between 4–11 miles, depending on the route and conditions. Trails may include moderate elevation gain, rocky sections, and uneven terrain typical of the Smoky Mountains. Guides set a supportive pace and adjust routes to match the group’s abilities.
No. This trip is designed as a basecamp experience, meaning we return to the same campsite each night. All hiking is done with light daypacks, making it accessible to guests who may be new to multi-day outdoor adventures.
Our basecamp is located on a private 90-acre mountain property, offering a quiet setting surrounded by forest. Evenings are spent relaxing around the fire, sharing meals, and enjoying time together after a day of exploring the mountains.
Participants typically carry a small daypack with water, snacks, rain gear, extra layers, and personal items. A detailed packing list will be provided before the trip.
These activities are included in the itinerary and are highlights of the final day. However, if a participant prefers not to participate, alternative options may be available depending on group logistics.
No prior experience is necessary. Professional guides provide safety briefings and instruction before both activities.
Yes. The Smoky Mountains are active bear habitat. Guides will instruct participants on proper food storage and backcountry practices to ensure safety for both guests and wildlife.
Unlike backpacking trips where you carry all your gear between campsites, this adventure allows you to sleep at the same basecamp each night while exploring different areas of the Smokies during the day.
Join the Adventure
Hike the Smokies.
Paddle the river.
Fly through the forest.
Then return each night to a welcoming wilderness basecamp.