October 21- 25 happened to be the peak of the Fall Colors in Great Smokey Mountain National Park. Chris, twelve friends, and I were lucky enough to absorb the experiecne below the canopy as we set out on a 3 night 4 day 21 miles backpacking trip.

We all raced from class to Battle Creek, MI where we rendezvoused at my home. We hit the road with excitement and energy, Great Smoky Mountain National Park or bust. 14 deep, we drove through the night. 7 people per van allowed little time for sleep. As we approached Pigeon Forge, TN the horizon began to illuminate. By the time we were climbing the twisted Smoky Mountain roads, the sun was peaking her face over the Appalachian Forest horizon. With a reclaimed energy we convinced ourselves to start our 4 mile day upon arrival. We trekked up, up, and continued to climb elevation, not until our food deprivation matched our sleep deprivationdid we arrive at camp; exhausted.

We woke to an Autumn rain that was pleasing to to the ear, and our feet soaked up the weather. It rained throughout the day but we battled the elements. Without a complaint we did everything in the rain; hiked, cooked, set up tents, ate lunch, dinner, went to bed.

The third day provided a great mix of terrain that led us into a stand of old growth forest. Trees towered above us, some as much as 10ft diameter. We arrived at camp, a small group occupied the designated site, so we cross a stream onto the stream bank and found just enough room to construct our tent city. Once we were established, we realized that the site was closed due to bear activity. However, the sign looked faded, and we would make sure to take ALL necessary precautions.


Day four, we climbed again, this time to victory; to the concord (van). For some it was their first trip, the most miles ever hiked in one day or in one outing, others enjoyed the company and new friendships, others reconnected, but we all enjoyed the simplicity of our party of 14, living in the backcountry.

Fall Colors Tour 2009!