Smoky Mountains

While visiting the Great Smoky Mountain National Park many people choose to hike as a way to explore the areas. For some their excursions on trails in the Smoky Mountains are the first hikes and for others it’s the hundredth time. Even for the most skilled hiker there are always safety precautions that should be taken. Below are a few steps everyone should take when planning a hiking trip.

-Always have another person with you.
-Let someone know what trails you plan to take and when you plan to arrive back.
-Know how to read a map and make this a necessity for you to have on your hiking trip.
-Dress accordingly. Wear comfortable clothing such as loose clothing and appropriate footwear (sneakers or boots).
-Be prepared for weather. Check the weather forecast to see what the conditions will be on the day of your hike.
-Pack a light lunch for an extended hike with snacks and bring plenty of water.
-Make sure you have a first aid kit handy. You never know when you will need one.
-Don’t try to hike a trail that you are not fit for or have the skills to hike.
-Keep your party together.
-Do not provoke any animals you come into contact with on the trail.
-Do not drink water from streams without boiling it first. Bacteria lives in water and can cause serious health issues long after you have hiked.

The Smoky Mountains are home to many different kinds of wildlife. Bears live in the wild and even though it is rare that an attack will occur you must not provoke these animals. Their behavior is unpredictable and if it feels threatened they will attack. If a bear attacks serious injury and even death can occur. Snakes also can be seen along the trails. There are two species of snakes that call the Smoky Mountains home, the northern copperhead and timber rattlesnake. Be cautious where you walk, lay, sit, touch, step, etc. Their bites are deadly. Although no fatalities from snakebites have been reported in the area it can still happen. There are also many insects in the area. Be sure to have insect repellent and avoid perfume, powders, scented deodorants, hairspray, etc. that might attract these insects. Swelling can occur if one is stung and in others severe allergic reactions occur so be sure you travel with epinephrine kits.

Even the most experienced hiker is subject to mishaps associated with lack of preparation and attention. You want your trip to be memorable and we want you to visit us again. Make sure you are cautious on your hike.