Smoky Mountains Overlanding: A Comprehensive Guide

Smoky Mountains

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By Core Editors Desk

The Great Smoky Mountains offer a diverse range of overlanding opportunities, from dispersed camping in national forests to traversing the Smoky Mountain 1000, a loop trail that spans across Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential information you need to plan your overlanding adventure in the Smoky Mountains.

Best Overlanding Trails in the Smoky Mountains

Smoky Mountains Overlanding
Image Credit: Wikimedia

  1. Smoky Mountain 1000: This 1,000-mile loop trail is a popular route for overlanders, offering a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt roads that traverse through the states of Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. The trail showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests, and the Cherohala Skyway.

  2. Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests: These forests offer dispersed camping opportunities with minimal off-roading required. Use apps like Gaia GPS and OnX to find suitable campsites and explore the network of forest roads.

  3. Buzzard’s Roost: A stock-friendly trail that offers a moderate challenge, suitable for vehicles like the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. This trail provides a mix of rocky terrain, steep climbs, and scenic vistas.

  4. Cades Cove Loop: An 11-mile journey into the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering scenic views and historical sites, including preserved log cabins, churches, and other structures from the early 20th century.

Popular Routes for Overlanding in the Smoky Mountains

Smoky Mountains Overlanding

  1. GSM Cherohola Loop #2: A 184-mile route that includes a section of the Tail of the Dragon, a renowned road known for its 318 curves in just 11 miles. This route is suitable for 4×4 vehicles and offers stunning mountain scenery.

  2. Smoky Mountain 1000: The entire 1,000-mile loop can be completed in about 9 days, covering a diverse range of terrain, from paved roads to challenging off-road sections. This route is a true test of your overlanding skills and offers a comprehensive exploration of the Smoky Mountains region.

Must-Visit Spots for Overlanding Enthusiasts

  1. Unica Mountain Overlook: Accessible via the Smoky Mountain 1000 route, this overlook offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

  2. French Broad River: A picturesque campsite with a beach, accessible via the Smoky Mountain 1000 route. This is an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

  3. Cades Cove: A historic valley within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessible via the Cades Cove Loop. Explore the preserved log cabins, churches, and other structures that provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

  4. Linville Gorge: Accessible via the Atlanta 105 route, this area offers great views and camping opportunities, making it a popular destination for overlanding enthusiasts.

Planning and Safety Considerations

  1. Seasonal Road Schedule: Check for road closures and seasonal restrictions in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as some roads may be closed during the winter months or due to weather conditions.

  2. Weather: Pack for variable weather conditions, including fog, rain, and snow, as the Smoky Mountains can experience unpredictable weather patterns.

  3. Permits: Secure backcountry permits for extended stays in remote locations beyond developed campgrounds, as this ensures you are complying with park regulations and helps to preserve the natural environment.

  4. Emergency Supplies: Outfit your rig and backpack with emergency supplies, such as first-aid kits, recovery gear, and communication devices, to ensure self-sufficiency and safety during your overlanding adventure.

Additional Resources

  1. Gaia GPS: A popular app for finding national forests and public lands suitable for camping, with detailed maps and navigation features.

  2. OnX: An app that shows user-submitted campsites, useful for finding dispersed camping opportunities in the Smoky Mountains region.

  3. The Dyrt: An app for finding dispersed camping near you, with reviews and ratings from other overlanders.

  4. Overland Bound: A forum with resources and discussions on overlanding routes, campsites, and gear recommendations for the Smoky Mountains.

References

  1. https://www.reddit.com/r/overlanding/comments/x56r48/overland_camping_near_smoky_mountain_park/
  2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbn-wt_xiqk
  3. https://www.overlandbound.com/forums/threads/great-smokey-mountains-loop.12903/
  4. https://darkskyoverland.com/overlander-guide-great-smoky-mountains-national-park/
  5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yecXIxBMq3U

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