Smokies Lake Traverse and Basecamp
Reach the Smokies by water and explore one of the park’s most remote backcountry regions.
Smokies Lake Traverse & Basecamp Expedition
Reach one of the most remote corners of the Smoky Mountains by water.
This expedition begins with a paddle across Fontana Lake, the deep mountain reservoir that forms part of the southern boundary of the park. The lake provides rare access to areas of the Smokies that would otherwise require long multi-day approaches on foot.
After crossing the lake, the group establishes a backcountry basecamp along the remote shoreline. From there, participants spend the next two days exploring forest trails, mountain streams, and hidden valleys deep within the park.
The expedition concludes with a return paddle across Fontana Lake, completing a rare water-and-trail journey through one of the most secluded landscapes in the Smokies.
A Remote Corner of the Smokies
The southwestern boundary of the park, where the mountains meet Fontana Lake, remains one of the most isolated areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Many backcountry campsites and trailheads in this region are accessible primarily by boat, allowing visitors to reach landscapes that see far fewer hikers than most areas of the park.
The terrain surrounding the lake is defined by:
- steep forested ridges rising directly from the shoreline
- quiet coves and long mountain inlets
- deep hardwood forests and rhododendron corridors
- remote creek valleys and historic backcountry trails
The result is a backcountry experience that feels far removed from the busy frontcountry areas of the park.
Quick Facts
Location: Great Smoky Mountains
Duration: 3 Days
Group Size: 2-6 Participants
Total Hiking Mileage: 12-18 Miles
Total Paddling Mileage: 6-10 Miles
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Terrain: Deep Forest, Pristine Lakeway, Creek Systems
Fitness Level: Active / Intermediate
Cost: From $1,299
What You Will Build During This Smokies Lake Traverse and Basecamp Expedition
This expedition is structured to develop:
- Backcountry route awareness
- Efficient pack management
- Terrain-specific decision-making
- Physical resilience under load
- Confidence navigating variable mountain conditions
Smokies Lake Traverse and Basecamp
Day 1
Welcome to Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
Our adventure begins this morning in Fontana, North Carolina, where we will meet our guides and fellow travelers. After a brief orientation, pack check, and distribution of group gear we transfer to the Marina to begin our exploration of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Your adventure starts with an orientation. On the way, you’ll learn about the fascinating origins of the tallest dam in the East. Once there, we’ll put up our tents, secure our packs and head back to the lake for a refreshing afternoon swim. Dinner Included.
Mileage: varies between 3 – 5.5 miles depending on specific route with +/- 1,500′ elevation change.
Day 2
Today we backpack the most remote and diverse sections of trail in the Smokies
Awaken to the symphony of the forest as we ease into our first day of life on the trail. Day two will take us on a day hike to some of the most remote areas of the Park. On this adventure, we’ll spot remnants of time forgotten. We’ll round out the day with some swimming and paddling. Breakfast and dinner included.
Mileage: varies between 6.5 – 13 miles depending on specific route with +/- 1,500-3,000′ elevation change.
Day 3
Cherish the last few hours spent among new friends along secluded trails in America’s most visited national park
Today’s journey is bittersweet. The last day takes on a short hike before hiking back to our boats and heading across the lake where we’ll say our goodbyes while dreaming of our next adventure! Breakfast Included.
Mileage: varies between 3-5 miles depending on specific route with +/- 1,500′ elevation change.
Note: Depending on the route you will be following, traffic in the area, trail conditions and other factors beyond our control, your group will likely arrive back in Fontana late afternoon. We’d highly recommend delaying any travel plans until the morning after your trip concludes.
Although we do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above, this itinerary is subject to change for numerous reasons beyond our control. This trip is operated rain or shine.
Why Professional Guidance Matters in the Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains present:
- Rapid weather shifts
- Lake navigation
- Complex backcountry permitting
- Variable elevation changes
Professional structure allows:
- Terrain-informed pacing
- Risk mitigation
- Ecological literacy
- Efficient route strategy
Participant Experience
Your Expedition Leadership
Every expedition is led by professionals with decades of combined field experience across the Southern Appalachians and beyond. Our leaders know these landscapes intimately—from seasonal weather patterns and trail conditions to water sources and emergency exit routes—and plan each trip accordingly. All guides are trained in wilderness risk management, decision-making under changing conditions, and group safety protocols, ensuring trips that are thoughtful, well-paced, and grounded in professional judgment rather than improvisation.
Inclusions
- Professional Guide Leadership
- Permits & Logistics
- Pre-Trip Planning Support
- Expedition Briefing Materials
- Gear Rental (tent, pack, pad, sleeping bag)
- Guide Gear (water filter, stove, fuel, 1st aid)
- Breakfasts, Dinners, Some Snacks
- Shuttle Transport to/from Trailheads
- Small Group Format
Exclusions
- Personal Items (toiletries, clothing)
- Prefered Comfort Food / Snacks
- Gratuity for Your Guide
- Airport Transfer
- Lodging before/after Trip
Frequently Asked Questions
What fitness level is required?
This expedition is designed for participants who are comfortable with sustained physical activity in a backcountry environment. Guests should be able to hike for 5-8 miles per day over uneven terrain while carrying a pack weighing approximately 25 pounds and paddle for 3-5 miles. Prior hiking or backpacking experience is recommended, and a consistent fitness routine in the weeks leading up to the trip will significantly improve comfort and enjoyment.
What gear is mandatory?
Participants are required to carry essential personal gear to ensure safety and comfort in the backcountry. This includes appropriate footwear, weather layers, hydration capacity, and core safety items. A detailed packing list will be provided well in advance of departure. We can provide all necessary gear, including a backpack, sleeping pad, sleeping bag and tent.
What if weather shifts?
Weather is an inherent part of wilderness travel, and itineraries are designed with flexibility in mind. Trip leaders monitor forecasts closely and make real-time adjustments to routes, pacing, or daily objectives as needed. In the event of severe conditions, alternative plans or modified activities may be implemented to maintain safety without compromising the overall experience.
What is the cancellation policy?
Due to the planning involved in these trips, we require a 60 day cancellation. A refund will be provided for cancellations up to 60 days prior to arrival. Cancellations between 59 and 30 days of your trip will be refunded half of the full trip charge. No refunds for cancellations with less than a 30 day notice. If the guide cancels your trip due to hazardous weather conditions prior to starting the trip, you will be refunded the full trip price. If the guide or a member of another group on the trip ends the trip early, you will be refunded a prorated portion of the cost. If we begin the trip and you or anyone in your group decides to end the trip early for any reason, there will be no refund. There are NO EXCEPTIONS to our cancellation policy. We are not responsible for medical or family emergencies. If you need to be evacuated for any reason, you will be responsible for the cost. Transportation costs can range from $75 to $300 depending on where you are at the time of the evacuation. If staff needs to hike in to hike you out or assist in an evacuation, you will be responsible for the cost.
We encourage you to research travel insurance services to best meet your needs if you must cancel or interrupt your trip due to unforeseen circumstances. Trip Assure offers insurance for our overnight trips. Trip Assure provides plans with benefits to protect the cost of your travel arrangements; your belongings; and most importantly, you, in case your trip gets disrupted. Please see the following link for more information: Trip Insurance with Trip Assure
How strenuous is each day?
Daily exertion varies based on terrain, distance, elevation change, and conditions. Most days involve [6-9] hours of hiking with regular breaks, opportunities for recovery, and time to engage with the landscape. Leaders set a sustainable pace focused on endurance and group cohesion rather than speed, allowing guests to move confidently and steadily through each day.
Do I need paddling experience for this trip?
No prior paddling experience is required. Guides provide a short orientation before launching and travel with the group throughout the lake crossing. The paddle route is selected based on conditions to ensure a safe and manageable crossing.
How far is the paddle across Fontana Lake?
The lake crossing typically ranges 3–5 miles, depending on the location of the selected campsite. Most groups complete the crossing in about 1.5–2.5 hours, depending on weather conditions and pacing.
What happens to our gear during the paddle?
All backpacking gear is secured in the boats for the lake crossing. Once the group reaches the shoreline campsite, gear is unloaded and the basecamp is established for the duration of the trip.
How remote is the area we are visiting?
Very remote. Many of the backcountry campsites along Fontana Lake are primarily accessed by boat, meaning far fewer visitors reach these areas compared to most Smokies trailheads.
How much hiking is involved once we reach basecamp?
During the basecamp portion of the trip, daily hikes typically range 4–10 miles on backcountry trails and along mountain streams. Because camp remains in one location, participants carry only light daypacks during these hikes.
What if weather conditions make paddling unsafe?
Safety is the priority. Guides monitor lake conditions and weather forecasts closely. If conditions are unsafe, the itinerary may be adjusted or launch timing modified to ensure a safe crossing.
Enrollment Is Limited
Each expedition is limited to 6 participants to preserve instructional quality and terrain integrity.