When you decide to take a hike, tie on your hiking shoes or boots, put on your comfiest hiking clothes, and choose your path! But don’t forget your other supplies! The easiest way to comfortably bring along the supplies you might need on a day hike is to have a good backpack. This will allow you to carry everything on your back, with the weight evenly distributed on your shoulders. This will maximize your comfort on the trail!

For short hiking trips that will last one day or less, consider packing your backpack with the following items:

• Clothing. Depending on the time of year, you might need extra layers, especially up in the higher elevations. A lightweight jacket with a hood will help combat winds and chilly air. A hat (waterproof is ideal), gloves, and lightweight scarf can also come in handy, and they can be easily stored away in your pack without adding much extra weight.
• Weather protection. Just because you’re not at the beach doesn’t mean you don’t need sun protection! Sunscreen is very important, especially if you are hiking a mountain trail! Chapstick is also a good thing to have along, to protect your lips from windburn and sunburn.
• Hiking Safety. A first aid kit is an absolute must! You don’t need to spend a lot of money on one, though. You can create a small, portable first aid kit comprised of essential items. It should include band aids, blister pads, anti itch cream, tweezers, and antibacterial. Don’t forget bug repellant, either! This will ward off pesky insects on the trail, especially in the summer. And if you are on any medications, bring an extra dose or two, just in case you need to take them during the hike.Another important tool that you should bring is a pocket knife. There are great, lightweight pocket tools available that include various types of blades, along with other instruments that can help you if you get into trouble. Another essential: a compass (along with a trail map). It is vital that you stay on the marked trails, but if you should happen to get lost, a compass will help you get your bearings and hopefully find your way back to the hiking trail. As for hiking trail maps for Gatlinburg, TN you can pick some up at the Sugarlands Visitors Center just inside the National Park as you leave the north end of Gatlinburg. Be sure to put the map in a plastic bag in case you encounter wet weather…or terrain.
• Snacks. Even if you are going on a shorter hike, you should always bring snacks and water with you. Hydration is extremely important. You might not feel like you are losing fluid, but you are, especially if you are hiking in the mountains! Bring a refillable water bottle that you can store in a side pocket of your backpack (one filled bottle per person). And pack lightweight snacks like granola bars or snack bags of GORP (raisins and peanuts), which will help you and your group refuel after a mile or two.
• Fun stuff. The Smoky Mountains offer breathtaking vistas, so don’t forget your camera! You will want to photograph the views, flowers, wildlife, and document the fun times you are having on the trail! Another fun thing to take along is a small notebook and pen. Journaling can be a great way to remember your hike, the things you see, and even the conversations you have with your hiking party.

A day hike in the mountains and forests around Gatlinburg, TN is a fun and invigorating way to explore the area! You will see many beautiful and amazing sights! And if you plan ahead by packing your backpack with a few lightweight essentials, you can relax and enjoy your hike, no matter where the trail leads you!

Article fromInside Gatlinburg, TN

What to Pack for a Hike in the Smokies

The Fourth Annual, 26.2 mile, Mountain Man Memorial March is a tribute to the men and women that serve in our country’s armed forces. This event honors First Lieutenant Frank Walkup, a UT Alumnus who was killed in Iraq in 2007 while serving our country. This event is inspired by the Bataan Memorial Death March that is staged in White Sands, NM each year. The University of Tennessee Army ROTC started the event to show its admiration and appreciation of our armed services while walking a mile, 26.2 of them in this case, in their boots. Thus the motto of the event, “Honor through actions.”

The march will begin at 9am Saturday, April 16^th in downtown Gatlinburg in front of the Hard Rock Cafe and proceed up Highway 321 toward Pittman Center. Opening ceremonies commence at 8:30am.

The course ranges from highway to rural roads from rugged terrain to mountain slopes. There are three entry categories: military heavy, military light and civilian. The entry fee is $50 per person or $200 per five-person team. The entry fee covers a light breakfast, snack food and water along the route at any of the 12 water points, T-shirt, BBQ meal at the finish line and custom-made awards from the Gatlinburg area. Proceeds from the event go to the Ranger Company, devised in 1962, to provide better training for Cadets who may be deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq. A portion of the events will go toward the Children of Fallen Soldiers Relief Fund in the name of First Lieutenant Walkup.

Frank B. Walkup IV followed in his father’s footsteps and chose the army for service to his country. First Lieutenant Walkup was raised in Woodbury, TN and attended the University of Tennessee. Upon graduation he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the infantry. Frank graduated from Airborne, Air Assault & Ranger School and was assigned to the 25^th Infantry Division in Hawaii. Summer of 2006 saw Frank deployed to Iraq as a platoon leader. On June 16^th, 2007 he was killed in Rashaad, Iraq by an IED. Frank was survived by his family and his college sweetheart Sabita Walkup.

Come out, support the troops and give to a good cause. It is very rare that you get to see a marathon in the Smokies. It is even rarer to see it done military style with 35 pound packs.

For more information visit http://web.utk.edu/~mmmm or call (865) 974-5371.

Article fromInside Gatlinburg, TN

Mountain Man Memorial March

One of the best reasons to visit Gatlinburg, TN is for the breathtaking natural surroundings. Just look up from any spot, and you will see picturesque views of the Great Smoky Mountains enveloping you. The heart of Gatlinburg is just paces away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, home to more than 800 miles of hiking trails, peaceful waterfalls, beautiful flora and fauna, and plenty of opportunities for you and your family to commune with nature.

Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is available to everyone, from those simply in the mood for a leisurely day hike to more experienced backcountry backpackers looking for a physical challenge. No matter what type of hike you choose to experience, you will be surrounded by soaring vistas, colorful wildflowers, abundant wildlife, and rich history. It is a perfect way to experience the mountains for the first time, and to introduce the great outdoors to the kids. Or, simply enjoy revisiting the rugged terrain you have traveled many times before, seeing something new at every turn.

Hiking trails are open all year round in the park. Each season brings its own set of views and experiences, and a hike any time of the year can be both a healthy and educational experience for anyone. Springtime offers copious amounts of blooming trees and flowers. Summertime is the time to splash in a cool mountain stream or picnic alongside a serene waterfall. The fall welcomes amazing colors, not to be missed. And winter is a special time in the Smoky Mountains, with crisp white snowfalls and views that reveal the true scope of the Great Smokies.

When you take a trip to Gatlinburg, you must take the short drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Enjoy an unhurried walk through the wilderness, or experience a challenging overnight hike in the unspoiled backcountry. Take the kids to one of the many waterfalls or simply enjoy the serenity of a romantic picnic lunch beside a mountain stream. Your vacation experience in Gatlinburg will not be complete without paying a visit to one of the nation’s most beautiful natural treasures!

Article fromInside Gatlinburg, TN

Hiking in Gatlinburg TN and the Great Smoky Mountains