Day 1: Arrival in Asheville, North Carolina & Travel to Pisgah National Forest

Arrival: Arrive at Asheville Regional Airport, where you’ll meet your guide and group.
Travel to Pisgah National Forest: From Asheville, drive into the heart of Pisgah National Forest, a lush wilderness area known for its towering trees, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.
Afternoon: Set up camp near the forest and enjoy a relaxing evening as you acclimate to the natural surroundings.
Evening: After dinner, gather around the campfire for a brief orientation on the upcoming adventure. Your guide will introduce you to the region’s history and natural features.
Overnight Accommodation: Camping at Pisgah National Forest in a scenic, forested campsite.

Day 2: Hiking the Appalachian Trail to Max Patch

Morning: After breakfast, start your day with a scenic drive to Max Patch, one of the most iconic hiking spots along the Appalachian Trail. Max Patch is famous for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and its expansive open meadow.
Midday: Hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail to Max Patch, enjoying breathtaking views and spotting wildlife like deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species along the way.
Afternoon: Spend time at Max Patch, taking in the stunning views, relaxing, and enjoying a packed lunch.
Evening: Return to camp for dinner and a relaxing evening in the forest. The evening sky provides an ideal setting for stargazing, as the area is known for its dark skies and clear nights.
Overnight Accommodation: Camping at Pisgah National Forest.

Day 3: Exploring Waterfalls & Wildflower Hikes in Pisgah National Forest

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a hike to visit some of the region’s stunning waterfalls, such as Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock, where you can cool off in the natural pools below.
Midday: Take a short hike through the wildflower-rich meadows and forests, where you'll see a variety of flora including mountain laurel, rhododendron, and azaleas in full bloom during spring and summer months.
Afternoon: Stop for a relaxing lunch in the shade of the forest before continuing your exploration of Pisgah’s hiking trails. Enjoy the diverse plant life and wildlife that inhabit this ancient forest.
Evening: Return to your campsite, enjoy a warm dinner, and gather around the campfire for a night of storytelling or relaxing by the fire.
Overnight Accommodation: Camping at Pisgah National Forest.

Day 4: Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Clingmans Dome & Alum Cave Trail

Morning: Pack up camp and drive to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most biodiverse areas in the U.S. Begin your day with a visit to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Smokies. The Clingmans Dome Observation Tower offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Midday: Hike the Alum Cave Trail, a moderate 4.4-mile trail that leads to a dramatic rock overhang with incredible views. The trail is rich in history and natural beauty, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the forest’s diverse ecosystems.
Afternoon: After the hike, take time to explore the park’s Cades Cove area, known for its historical cabins and wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys.
Evening: Set up camp in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoy an evening in one of the most scenic national parks in the U.S.
Overnight Accommodation: Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Day 5: Hike to Laurel Falls & Roaring Fork Nature Trail

Morning: After breakfast, take a hike to Laurel Falls, the park’s largest and most popular waterfall. The easy 2.6-mile trail is surrounded by lush greenery and offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Smoky Mountains.
Midday: Continue exploring the Roaring Fork Nature Trail, a scenic loop that showcases the park’s old-growth forests, historic cabins, and cascading streams. Along the trail, learn about the cultural history of the Smoky Mountains and its early settlers.
Afternoon: After lunch, take some time to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings, or choose to explore other parts of the park on your own.
Evening: Return to your campsite for a final evening under the stars, sharing memories of the hike and the wildlife encounters you’ve experienced.
Overnight Accommodation: Camping in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Day 6: Departure – Scenic Drive & Return to Asheville

Morning: After a final breakfast in the forest, pack up camp and embark on a scenic drive back to Asheville, taking in the beautiful views of the Appalachian Mountains along the way.
Midday: If time permits, stop at Mount Mitchell State Park, home to the highest peak in the eastern United States, for a short hike and panoramic views.
Afternoon: Arrive in Asheville for your departure or extend your stay in the area to explore the vibrant mountain town, known for its arts scene, craft breweries, and historic architecture.
Evening: Depart for home, taking with you unforgettable memories of the Appalachian wilderness.