When planning a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are several items that you should bring for your personal safety and security on the trails. While it is unlikely that you will encounter an emergency in the park, it is always better to be safe than sorry! Here are four essential items that you should bring with you when hiking in the Smoky Mountains:

1. Water for Hydration

One of the most important things to remember while hiking is to stay hydrated, so be sure to bring plenty of water along for your hike! We recommend that you carry more water than you think you need just to prepare for the unexpected. In order to prevent dehydration, drink the water slowly and frequently over the course of your hiking adventure. If you don’t drink enough water, you will not only be thirsty but your body’s muscles and organs won’t perform as well.

2. Navigational Tools

Before you go hiking in the Smoky Mountains, pack a good park map and a compass to navigate directions. You can download free maps of Great Smoky Mountains National Park or pick up a map at one of the four visitor centers within the park. Look over the trail map when starting your hike and stay on the marked trails for your safety. The compass comes in handy as a backup in case you lose your sense of direction!

3. First Aid Kit

While thousands of visitors successfully navigate the trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on a daily basis, your personal safety depends on good judgment, adequate preparation, and constant attention. While you can always be prepared, accidents can happen so it is essential to have a first aid kit with you at all times. The kit should include adhesive bandages, gauze pads, treatment for blisters, adhesive tape, disinfecting ointment and pain medication such as ibuprofen.

4. Sun Protection

Whether the forecast calls for a sunny day or an overcast sky, be sure to bring and apply sun protection before hiking in the Smoky Mountains! This is especially critical when exploring the higher elevations of the Smokies. While the temperatures may be cooler as you gain elevation, it is easier to get sunburned at a high altitude. We also suggest bringing a hat and sunglasses to provide additional protection from the sun.

Where to Stay

Enjoy staying near the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a vacation at Acorn Cabin Rentals! Our beautiful cabins are just minutes from the entrance to the park and have everything you need for a fun getaway in the mountains. After an action-packed day in the park, there is nothing better than coming back to our cabins for a soothing soak in the hot tub and a restful night in our comfortable bedrooms. While staying with us, take advantage of fantastic cabin amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, decks with scenic views and more!

Check out all of our cabins in the Smokies today to plan your vacation to go hiking in the Smoky Mountains! We look forward to seeing you soon at Acorn Cabin Rentals!