Once we understand the basics of the hammock system, we'll dive into a conversation about backcountry camping how-to's and why it's recommended to select different locations to prepare meals, store food items and sleep in wild spaces. We'll also brush up on the seven principles of "Leave No Trace." At the end of the day, we'll climb into our self-assembled sleeping systems for the best in rest and relaxation. 

Thursday, October 4: We'll have breakfast and breakdown camp. You'll be pleasantly surprised how easy and efficient breakdown will be! Before hitting the trail, we can take time for a Q&A session to cover a variety of hiking and camping topics, such as:

• Loading and fitting your backpack. And the 10 safety essentials. You can carry either a fully loaded pack or a day pack to Mt Cammerer. The choice is yours!
• How equipment and gear distribution can help us be stronger, safer and more knowledgable outdoorspeople
• The importance of proper footwear and clothing

Liz will lead the charge as we begin our 12 mile round-trip day-hike along the steep and well maintained Low Gap Trail. Watch your step, you may see a salamander! Once we arrive at the Mt. Cammerer Fire Tower, we'll reward ourselves with a relaxing lunch and soak up the view. When finsihed we'll make our way down the trail with a new persective on lower-impact hiking and camping.

Other highlights include: Late blooming wildfowers, early fall temperatures and folliage, forest and stream scenes and the potential to view wildlife in their natural habitat.

GSMA Program Leader: Liz Domingue - Owner/operator of Just Get Outdoors 

Activity rating: Strenuous. For specific trail information, refer to Hiking Trails of the Smokies.

Mileage: 12 miles maximum - Load a digital map of Smokies trails HERE.

Location: Cosby Campground check-in station. Parking and restrooms available. Familiarize yourself with the meeting location prior to the event date, as many of our events are held in remote locations and digital navigation may not be reliable.

Know Before You Go: GSMA events occur rain or shine and follow Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service operation policies. Keep in mind that many of our events are remote and often several hours from telephone or emergency services.

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Twitter - Smokies Road Info

Maps - Great Smoky Mountains National Park

What's included in the price: 

• GSMA "I'm Rooted int he Smokies" all in-one-hammock system including hammock, stuffsack, rainfly and tree straps
• A professional, knowledgeable, certified Great Smoky Mountains hiking guide
• National Park camping permits and fees
• Emergency equipment including a company-issued first-aid kit and satellite phone

What's Not Included:

• Food, cooking, water and sleeping systems
• Clothes, raingear, footwear and headlamp or flashlight
• Toiletries and personal items
• Guide gratuity (industry recommendation is 10-20% of trip cost)

Check out our gear list HERE

Fees to Attend

GSMA member price $375.00

New member price (Includes annual Buckeye level membership) $410.00

Hemlock members go for $150.00 

Want to bring a buddy? Call 865.436.7318. ext. 349 for special pricing

Your enjoyment of these programs supports the Smokies.

Participation fees are essential for GSMA to secure the services of some of the most knowledgeable guides whose purpose is to help strengthen your knowledge and appreciation of this National Park and all public lands. Get Rooted in the Smokies today.