Backcountry Permit Conditions
Permit holders are responsible for their group, including everyone's safety and compliance with park rules and regulations. Backpackers must be familiar with and follow all permit rules and regulations:
Backpackers MUST have a backcountry permit to camp overnight in the backcountry. All permits are non-refundable/non-transferable.
Backpackers must have a parking tag to park a vehicle at any trailhead. Parking is limited and obtaining a parking tag does not guarantee a parking spot at a specific location. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the park. Backcountry users should plan to arrive early in the morning to secure a parking spot for their intended backcountry itinerary, especially at the busier trailheads in the park.
Rescue is NOT a certainty! I am aware of the risks involved with traveling/camping in the backcountry and that the safety of my group is my responsibility. As the permit holder, I understand it is my responsibility to make sure everyone in my group abides by the conditions of this permit, or I could be cited for their actions.
DOGS/PETS ARE NOT ALLOWED. I will NOT bring dogs or any other pets into the backcountry.
I understand how to utilize the scented items/food storage cable system and that I MUST hang ALL scented items on the cable system when I am not using them (i.e., food, cookware, toiletries, and trash) regardless of what type of container they are in. If I CHOOSE to carry a bear canister, it will be placed in my pack and hung in the cable system to comply with the park requirement. I will not leave my pack unattended. Click here to learn more about black bears.
I will protect everyone’s drinking water by being prepared to bury my human feces and toilet paper ONLY in a six-inch-deep cathole or use privies where available. Dishwashing and bathing in any water source with soap is prohibited. I will filter any drinking water.
I will pack out everything I bring into the backcountry, including ALL trash and gear. I will ONLY use established fire rings and burn dead/downed wood. I will not cut down any trees. I will not burn any trash or food. I will not leave a fire unattended until the ash is cold to the touch.
I will NOT vandalize the park. I understand Leave No Trace ethics and that writing, drawing, or carving on shelters, privies, rocks, trees, or features is considered vandalism and prohibited by law.
I understand that if my permit itinerary includes a shelter, I am REQUIRED to use it and must stay inside the shelter. Closures can occur unexpectedly, and you may or may not get a notification.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is Bear Country: Bear activity is especially high during May-August. Visitors may experience a higher likelihood of bear encounters this time of year. Over the last 10 years, an average of 339 negative human-bear encounters have been reported each year; many more go unreported. Visitors should be aware that high bear activity can occur in any area, and that your safety is not guaranteed. To increase your odds for a safe visit, please follow best practices for living and recreating in bear habitat. Stay alert and be prepared to react appropriately during possible encounters, and always report any unusual bear interactions as soon as possible. Click here to learn more about black bears.
To enhance the overall experience and safety of backpacking trips, backpackers in Great Smoky Mountains National Park should always carry the 10 Essentials and practice Leave No Trace.
Seasonal and weather-related road closures may affect your ability to access trailheads. Prior to starting your trip, please check the Roads, Facilities, and Backcountry Updates page and the weather forecast. Please remember that road and weather conditions change constantly. Be prepared for the unexpected!
Camp Observer
