Reservation7/10
Mt LeConte
High peak lodge and shelter....
View LeConte Lodge Reservations permit details and availability
ReservationThru-HikeModerate Demand
AT Thru-hiker Permit
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For through-hikers crossing the park.
“Traverse Great Smoky on the AT Thru-hike.”
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AT Thru-hike Quick Facts
Permit RequiredYes
Booking MethodReservation
Demand LevelModerate5/10
Key Information
Permit Details
TypeThru-Hike
Booking MethodReservation
Demand Level5/10
LocationNPS
How to Get This Permit
1
Create a Recreation.gov account
Sign up at recreation.gov if you don't have an account. Have your payment info ready.
2
Know the release schedule
Permits typically release on a rolling basis. Check the specific release time for your desired dates.
3
Be ready when permits drop
Log in a few minutes early. Have your dates, group size, and payment ready to go.
4
Monitor for cancellations
If your dates are sold out, people cancel all the time. Set up PermitSnag alerts to catch openings instantly.
When to Go
Peak: Summer monthsShoulder: Spring and Fall
Conditions
Summer offers the most reliable conditions for most wilderness areas.
Crowd Level
ModerateAdvantages
- +Longest days
- +Warmest temperatures
- +Reliable trail conditions
Challenges
- !Peak demand for permits
- !Book accommodations early
- !Weather varies
Difficulty Assessment
Physical Demand1/5
Fitness and endurance required
Technical Skill1/5
Climbing, scrambling, or specialized skills
Exposure Risk1/5
Steep dropoffs and fall potential
Navigation1/5
Route finding and trail clarity
Commitment4/5
Difficulty of bailing out mid-route
Best For
Hikers of moderate fitness willing to put in the effort.
Recommended Experience
Basic hiking experience. Start with shorter trails if new to hiking.
The Experience
Why It Matters
AT Thru-hike represents one of the great long-distance hiking experiences in Great Smoky. The permit system manages use across multiple trailheads and campsites, preserving the wilderness character that makes this trail special.
Safety & Planning
🚨
Emergency Info
Download the PermitSnag app for offline access to emergency contacts, ranger station locations, and satellite communicator tips for AT Thru-hike.
Want to access emergency info offline?Get the app →
🐻
Food Storage
Check bear canister requirements, approved container lists, and rental locations in the PermitSnag app.
Want to check food storage requirements?Get the app →
AT Thru-hike FAQ
How do I get a AT Thru-hike permit?
AT Thru-hike permits are obtained through a reservation system. Use PermitSnag to track availability and get notified when cancellations occur.
When is the best time to visit AT Thru-hike?
Check with the managing agency for current season dates. Weekdays generally have better availability than weekends.
How competitive is the AT Thru-hike permit?
This permit has a demand score of 5/10, making it moderately competitive.
What if I can't get a AT Thru-hike permit?
Cancellations happen daily. Set up alerts with PermitSnag to get notified the moment a spot opens up. We check availability every few minutes, 24/7.
Photography Guide
Golden Hour
Sunrise and sunset offer the best light for landscape shots along the trail. Camp positioning matters for catching alpenglow.
Best Light
Early morning provides crisp air and fewer hikers in your shots. Midday sun can be harsh in exposed areas.
Beat the Crowds
Start early to photograph popular viewpoints without crowds. Weekdays see significantly fewer hikers.
Classic Shots
- 📍Trail marker or sign at AT Thru-hike trailhead
- 📍Panoramic views from high points
- 📍Campsite at golden hour
- 📍Trail winding through wilderness
- 📍Completion photo at trail end
Other Great Smoky Permits
Consider these alternatives or add them to your tracking list