Great Smoky Mountains Lodge-Based Hike and Explore
Price
Activity Level
Between 2-3
We rate trips on a scale from 1 (leisurely) to 5 (avid), with a range of activity levels in between.
Overview
Set out on an unforgettable adventure through the Great Smoky Mountains, where misty ridgelines, rushing waterfalls, and endless forest trails invite you to explore. Wander beneath towering hardwoods and breathe in the fresh mountain air as you hike to scenic spots. Feel the magic of the Smokies come alive through vibrant fall colors, wildlife sightings, and stories rooted in Appalachian history. Between hikes, unwind in cozy mountain cabins, enjoy hearty Southern meals, and share laughter around the fire under a sky full of stars. The Great Smoky Mountains promise a perfect balance of discovery, relaxation, and connection — a place where every turn in the trail reveals something truly special.
Included/Excluded
- Skilled Outdoor Leader guides
- Delicious, healthy meals & snacks
- Equipment for all outdoor activities
- Park permits & fees
- Transportation to & from trip activities
- Double-occupancy or group rooms by gender or request
- Limited single-occupancy rooms available for extra cost
- Transportation to and from trip start and end location (including airfare)
- Optional trip insurance
- On-your-own activities, food, and shopping
Location Map
Day 1 – Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains!
Arrive at a beautiful cabin right outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Settle into your cozy accommodations and spend the evening getting to know your fellow adventurers over a delicious dinner.
Day 2 – Enjoy Scenic Highlights of the Smokies
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at the lodge before driving to the Oconaluftee entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Explore the Mountain Farm Museum to learn about the park’s history and heritage. Then, enjoy a scenic hike along the Appalachian Trail surrounded by breathtaking mountain views.
Day 3 – Waterfalls and Cultural Exploration
After breakfast, venture on a beautiful hike featuring multiple waterfalls. Pause for a picnic lunch before heading to the historic Cades Cove District for exploration and photography opportunities. Continue your hike before returning to the lodge for dinner and evening relaxation.
Day 4 – Explore Natural Wonders and Historic Caves
Begin the day with breakfast at the lodge, then explore the stunning Tuckaleechee Caverns and their underground wonders. Enjoy a picnic lunch nearby, followed by a leisurely afternoon hike through the surrounding area. In the evening, gather for dinner and a special Indigenous storytelling experience led by a local elder, followed by a reflective session to share highlights from your trip.
Day 5 – Farewell to the Smokies
After breakfast, take a gentle morning walk to soak in the final views of the mountains. Participate in a closing circle at the lodge to celebrate your journey and reflect on your experiences. Depart the cabins mid-morning, and say farewell to the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
Our Approach to Accessibility
Wilderness Inquiry takes a creative and multifaceted approach to accessibility on trips and programs. Understandably, an ADA-level accessibility may not always be available in wilderness and even international settings. That is why we utilize Wilderness Inquiry’s Universal Program Participation Model (UPPM) to guide our approach to accessibility by leveraging key resources such as adaptive equipment, support personnel, itinerary and activity choices, and weighing in unique environmental factors to create experiences that can be accessible to many individuals. While our trips may not follow a one-size-fits-all approach, our team does its best to ensure a variety of travel and program options that offer differing levels of accessibility for a variety of needs and abilities. If you have questions about your ability to participate on a Wilderness Inquiry trip or program, our team is always willing to explore options and solutions that suit a traveler’s interest and ability – don’t hesitate to reach out!
What is included in the trip price?
Trip fees cover all of your needs while you are traveling with us — including equipment, food, guides, permits, etc. You are responsible for bringing personal clothing and hygiene supplies. Gear such as sleeping bags, pads, and cots can be checked out during the booking process for no additional fee.
Could the itinerary change after I sign up?
Your trip is dependent on weather, availability, and potential other unforeseen circumstances. All itineraries online are “sample” itineraries that are subject to change. Please check your confirmation packet for the most up-to-date information.
There are many different route choices available within our trip locations for hiking and paddling. The routes will be chosen by Wilderness Inquiry Outdoor Leaders based on availability and the strength of the group.
What type of food will I eat during the trip?
Typical menus for overnight camping trips include pesto pasta, burritos, stir-fry, avocado caprese wraps, brats and burgers, apple cobbler, and plenty of snacks. The exact menus vary trip-by-trip. On longer wilderness expeditions, we bring more nonperishable foods that keep well for days without refrigeration. On international trips, we tend to eat the local cuisine. We can accommodate most dietary restrictions and preferences — please note this information on your registration form.
I or a member of my family has a disability. Can I/they still participate?
We strive to put accessibility at the forefront of our programs so that individuals of all abilities, including people with disabilities, can successfully participate in our trips. If you or a member of your family has a disability, you will have an opportunity to confidentially share more during the registration process for your trip. A member of our team will connect with you further over the phone to make sure we are able to provide the appropriate support or accommodations you need to have a safe and rewarding experience on your trip.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes! We believe the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors should be available to everyone. To keep our programs as financially accessible as possible, each year we raise funds to support need-based scholarships. Certain restrictions apply. Financial aid is available for a select number of trips and is typically not available for international trips. Visit our Financial Aid page to learn more and apply.
What is your cancellation policy?
Trip deposits are due at the time of booking and are generally non-refundable.Â
- Within five weeks prior to trip departure (0-34 days):
- You are responsible for 100% of trip fees. No refunds issued.
- Five to ten weeks prior to trip departure (35-70 days):
- We will refund up to 50% of your trip fee, minus your deposit.
- Ten weeks or more prior to trip departure (71+ days):
- We will issue a refund of all trip fees paid, minus your deposit.
- The deposit may be credited to a future trip.
To view our full cancellation policy, please click here.
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