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Join us for a women’s-only backpacking trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park—designed specifically for beginners. This 2-day, 1-night experience keeps the mileage manageable so you can focus on learning the fundamentals of backpacking, from setting up camp to using your gear with confidence.
Along the way, you’ll hike through some of the park’s most scenic landscapes while building skills in a supportive, small-group environment. Whether you’re coming solo or with a friend, this trip is about gaining confidence outdoors and enjoying the experience together.
Food
All meals are provided by Happy Hiking Company and will be distributed the morning of your trip. You’ll choose from a selection of lightweight, backpacking-friendly options including dehydrated meals, snacks, and drinks (coffee included!).
We can accommodate many dietary needs, but options may be somewhat limited due to the nature of backpacking food. Please note any allergies or restrictions when booking so we can plan accordingly.
Gear
We provide high-quality backpacking gear at no additional cost, including backpacks, tents, trekking poles, and sleeping pads. Your guide will fit and distribute gear before you hit the trail.
All shared equipment—such as stoves, water filters, first aid supplies, and bathroom kits—is also included and will be divided among the group.
This trip is a great fit if you’re looking for a moderate challenge with a big payoff—think a few miles of hiking, carrying a pack, and settling into camp in the backcountry.
Coming solo? You’ll be in good company—many guests join on their own, while others come with a friend. You’ll have the option of a two-person tent to yourself or sharing with another participant to lighten your pack. There’s no extra cost if you prefer your own tent.
After booking we will provide a full detailed packing list specific to your trip. Gear that you should plan on bringing yourself includes:
Many of the typical luxuries of everyday life are not needed in the backcountry! Feel free to leave your makeup, deodorant, and other products at home. A toothbrush/toothpaste is the only recommended toiletry for your trip.
Extra electronics and other forms of entertainment are not needed – take this time to disconnect and enjoy nature – screen free!
The cost for this trip is $375, and will run if there are 3 or more hikers in the group. If the minimum number of hikers is not met, your guide will reach out to you within 2 weeks of your trip.
This cost includes all food, as well as most of the gear needed for the trip. The details on what is included and what is your responsibility to bring is outlined above. Once booked your guide will send you a detailed packing list as well.To book a trip with Happy Hiking Co., a 20% non-refundable deposit is required. Trips are required to be paid in full within 3 weeks of your scheduled trip date. If needed, you can cancel for a full refund (minus the 20% deposit) prior to 3 weeks of your trip departure date.
More than 3 weeks prior to departure, if you need to transfer to another trip date there is a $30 transfer fee. Within 3 weeks of your departure date, transfers are not available.
Within 3 weeks of your trip date, a 50% refund will be issued. Within 1 week of your trip date, no refund will be offered barring cancellation of the trip by Happy Hiking Co.
Happy Hiking Co. runs tours rain or shine! Should extreme weather circumstances arise, your guide will reach out to coordinate the details and changes to your itinerary.
If your guide does an exceptional job, please show your appreciation with a tip.
Our team of highly trained professional guides never expects but always appreciates a tip. Industry standard gratuity for a guided backpacking trip is 15-20% of trip price.
Happy Hiking Company offers a 2-day, 1-night backpacking trip in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll hike through forested trails, see scenic viewpoints and waterfalls, and learn the basics of backpacking along the way.
This trip is designed to help you build confidence outdoors in a supportive, women-only group. You’ll meet your guide at a trailhead within the park, with the exact location shared before your trip. All meeting points are within about a 2-hour drive of Asheville, NC or Gatlinburg, TN.
Wildlife Encounters: The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, and you may spot everything from insects and birds to larger animals like deer or elk. Your guide will help you notice and identify what you see along the way.
Happy Hiking Co. is more than just a guide service – we’re your partners in making memories. Our experienced guides are not only passionate about the Great Smoky Mountains but also dedicated to ensuring your safety and ensuring you leave with a profound connection to this natural wonderland.
Get ready to embark on this journey into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Reserve your spot on Happy Hiking Co.’s backpacking trip today and get ready to be enchanted by the beauty of this iconic national park. The Great Smoky Mountains are waiting to share their secrets with you, one trail at a time.
