I'm aware of the temp changes and weather changes at the higher altitudes. John Chess I have not made it into the Smokies yet, but am looking for some 10-12 mile loops of moderate to difficult hiking. I've begun making my own walking sticks lately. I find one helps speed the pace a bit, like using a ski pole. Any suggestions for the fall or early spring.
Summer trips are a bit warm, but fine also.
Our trip was quite an adventure. Backcountry camp site 42 on Polls Gap Trail no longer has water. Next time I have any suspicions about water availability, I won't mix Gatorade in with the water I'm carrying. Also, Polls Gap Trail is overgrown with plants of various sorts. It is a very difficult trail to follow.