This post is two weeks in the making at this point. Throughout my thru hike attempt, it’s a regular occurrence to chat with other hikers about the “next big thing” on the trail. Starting out, it was Blood Mountain in Georgia. Once we got through Neel’s Gap, it was the Albert Mountain climb. All along the way, though, the Smokies have been a bogeyman that is a frequent topic of discussion. I’m by no means an accomplished winter backpacker, and the Smokies are the closest we’re likely to get to true winter conditions in the southern half of our hike. Though I’m confident in my skills and gear, it’s a bit unnerving to see folks loading out microspikes and ice axes specifically for this section (okay, I only saw one person with an ice axe, but still).
I’d planned to shoot daily videos whilst in the Smokies, but this plan was a bit derailed by user error and weather conditions. As a result, I decided it made sense to compile content from our time in the Smokies into a single video update. Though it’s a bit late, I hope you enjoy!
Cheers,
Billy
Billy Goes Hiking 
Hi Will! Love sharing in this journey with you through your updates. So glad you and Glori got to meet up! Stay safe.
Aunt Tammy
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Way to go! So thankful the Smokies were mostly good to you. What breathtaking views!!!
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Love this post with videos and pictures from the Smokies! So cool to really get a glimpse into what you experienced! Can’t wait for your next post!
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Amazing views!
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I watched this video twice. The first time was to watch you and your hiking, I am so impressed with your spirit during “less than optimum conditions”. The other was to check out the views from Charlie’s Bunion and Hot Springs, N. C. I was fortunate enough to hike the “Boulevard Trail” (part of the Appalachian Trail) from Newfound Gap to where a side trail goes to Mount LeConte and the LeConte Lodge.
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Very cool! The Smokies are one of the places that I’ll certainly be back to visit after this trek, and I’ve heard nothing but good things about Mount LeConte (though I’ve not hiked it yet myself!)
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