Spring Hiking in the Smoky Mountains

The Appalachian Trail weaves back and forth across the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. I was backpacking somewhere near Clingman's Dome in the late spring when it started to snow. The flakes were getting bigger even though it was May. I did not expect snow this late in the year, especially in the Smoky Mountains. Was it an adventure? Yes. Will I do it that early in the season again? Probably not!

Here is a tip, if it is early spring, make sure you bring dry kindling to help start a fire or a gas heater to help keep you warm. Always wear appropriate clothes and I suggest for the winter and spring you try thermal underwear and a Fatigue Sweater. I always say wear a good comfortable waterproof boot and I suggest you try the big horn boot with ultra insulation.

I set up my tent near the top and believe me it was no picnic. I went to sleep but woke up during the night to shove the snow off the top of my tent and to see how deep the snow was.

I packed up and with cold fingers and toes and I was on my way and was soon at the top of Cling mans Dome. There is a tower at the peak with a spiral ramp going to the top. I was the only person there to enjoy the view, and I could see miles in every direction.

By noon I was below the snow and now in the cold rain. I finally reached a trail shelter and got a fire going in the fireplace, For the first time in my life I thought about what the settlers went through. I was fortunate my rain coat kept me dry. My feet warmed up after a while but the rain returned that evening and so did the cold. It makes you appreciate the bounty of what we have in modern times.

Some tips to keep in mind are these, dress appropriately, plan ahead for trouble, make sure you have the ability to communicate ( remember your out in the wilderness..alone!) and make a check list of what you will need before you go on your adventure and enjoy! For more tips about hiking safely go to http://www.smokeymountainhikersblog.com.