The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club is a passionate group of outdoor enthusiasts dedicated to exploring, preserving, and sharing the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains. As one of the oldest hiking clubs in the region, the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club has been leading the charge in outdoor recreation and conservation efforts for over a century.
Upcoming Events
The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club has a packed calendar of events and activities for hikers of all skill levels. Here are some of the upcoming highlights:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Annual Election Picnic | Saturday, August 10 |
| 2024 Centennial Banquet | Saturday, October 5 |
Conservation Efforts
The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club takes great pride in its conservation efforts, maintaining an impressive 102 miles of the Appalachian Trail within the Smokies and Nantahala National Forest. Members can participate in these efforts by joining weekly hikes and high-elevation trail maintenance activities, ensuring that the trails remain accessible and well-maintained for generations to come.
COVID-19 Guidelines
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club has implemented updated guidelines for visitors and members participating in club activities. These guidelines can be found on the club’s website, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Membership and Donations
The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club offers membership opportunities, and the club also accepts tax-deductible donations through their online donation form. These contributions help support the club’s ongoing conservation efforts, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives.
History and Resources
The Smoky Mountains Hiking Club boasts a rich history, with a collection of annual handbooks available at the University of Tennessee Libraries. These handbooks provide a fascinating glimpse into the club’s past, including detailed lists of scheduled hikes for each year. Additionally, the club has produced several videos celebrating its 100-year anniversary, which can be found on YouTube.
Guided Hikes
In addition to the club’s own hikes, the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club collaborates with other local organizations, such as Friends of the Smokies, A Walk in the Woods, and Smoky Mountain Guides, to offer guided hikes throughout the region. These guided experiences provide an opportunity for both seasoned hikers and newcomers to explore the Smokies’ breathtaking trails and landscapes.
Contact and Photos
For those interested in sharing their hiking or trail maintenance photos, the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club can be reached at tech-team@smhclub.org. The club encourages members and visitors to capture and share their adventures, helping to promote the beauty and importance of the Smokies.
References
- Smoky Mountains Hiking Club. (n.d.). Home. Retrieved from https://www.smhclub.org
- YouTube. (2023, August 31). 100 years of the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cwag7wKnxz8
- University of Tennessee Libraries. (n.d.). Smoky Mountains Hiking Club Collection. Retrieved from https://digital.lib.utk.edu/collections/islandora/object/gsmrc:smhc
- YouTube. (2023, August 31). Smoky Mountains Hiking Club celebrates 100 years. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwP6T0nVY_4
- Smoky Mountain National Park. (2023, March 25). 4 Local Organizations That Offer Guided Hikes in the Smoky Mountains. Retrieved from https://smokymountainnationalpark.com/blog/guided-hikes-in-the-smoky-mountains/.