Appalachian Trail Thru Hiker Permit

To qualify for a Great Smoky Mountains NP Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Permit, you must begin and end your hike at least 50 miles outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and only travel on the AT in the park. Backpackers not meeting this definition should obtain a General Backcountry Permit. You must provide an estimated entry date, and thru-hikers may enter the park up to 15 days before or 15 days after that date, providing a 30 day window of flexibility to accommodate varying trail conditions and abilities. Thru-hikers have 8 days and 7 nights to make it through after entering the park; trips exceeding 7 nights require an additional permit. Each thru-hiker must obtain an individual permit. Backpackers are required to stay at designated campsites and shelters in the backcountry, and all overnight stays in the backcountry require a permit.