Smokies--Memorial Day Wknd

“How crowded will the Smokies be Memorial Day Weekend, and is it too late to get a permit?”

“gatlinburg and pigeon forge were almost unbearable to drive through last year same weekend”

“once you get out of the frontcountry it shouldn't be too awful crowded at all.

If your not trying to get campsites that have size restrictions, you won't have any problems either, its self register when you arrive.”

“Good, didn't know about the self register thing. It will just be one tent, so campsite size shouldn't be an issue. I'm afraid once we hit Pigeon Forge, the commander in chief will decide she would rather stay in a nice comfy hotel and eat real food.”

“it will be hard to find the backcountry...and the park offices will be jammed”

“well, cades cove will be ridiculous, as will Newfound Gap.

and anywhere along the developed campgrounds. But i would bet that if you get your permit at Smokemont but then go somewhere else to enter a trail your odds of haveing some peace go up. Don't expect to have any campsites to yourself though.”