About Appalachian Trail Thru Hiker Permit
To qualify for a Great Smoky Mountains NP Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Permit, you must begin and end your hike at least 50 miles outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and only travel on the AT in the park. Backpackers not meeting this definition should obtain a General Backcountry Permit.You may obtain a thru-hiker permit up to 30 days in advance of the day you anticipate entering Great Smoky Mountains National Park and you must provide an estimated entry date for your permit.Thru hikers may enter the park up to 15 days before or 15 days after their estimated date of entry, providing a 30 day window of flexibility to accommodate varying trail conditions and abilities.Thru-hikers have 8 days/7 nights to make it through after entering the park. Trips exceeding 7 nights require an additional permit. Each thru-hiker must obtain an individual permit. Backpackers are required to stay at designated campsites/shelters in the backcountry and all overnight stays in the backcountry require a permit.The Great Smoky Mountains NP AT Thru-hiker Permit fee is $44.50 and is non-refundable and non-transferable.
