Such AT sections are much less crowded than those near Newfound Gap and Clingmans Dome, while offering the same sensation of walking the crest of eastern America. For information about the complete Appalachian Trail write The Appalachian Trail Conference, P.O. Box 236, Harpers Ferry, West Virginia 25425. Once you leave a parking area or campground in the Smokies, you are in the wilderness. The National Park Service advises against solo camping or hiking in the backcountry. Even experienced hikers can get into trouble and, if alone, may not be able to obtain help.
Stream crossings can be dangerous if the streams are swollen after a rainstorm.
Don't attempt to ford a swollen stream. Return to the trailhead and plan another trip. It's worth the extra effort and precaution. Sudden weather changes are characteristic of the Great Smokies. Be prepared to get wet and either hotter or colder.