3 day loop in Smokies

“Hi all, I am looking for a 4 day, 3 night loop hike in the Smokies. It's our first trip hiking in this area. We'd like to stay in our test most nights as opposed to a shelter. We are going next March 30th. The mountain views and solitude (this is a 15 year anniversary trip!)are most important to us. We figure we can handle 5-10 miles per day and are looking forward to the elevation challenges. Advice on the best trails in the Smokies for this trip would be greatly appreciated!”

“Day 1. From the campground(with 12 tent sites) off of I-40, to Walnut Bottoms.
Day 2. Then uphill to Laurel Gap Shelter (sorry).
Day 3. Next is across to CS#38. Great views.
Day 4. Exit is an easy, 6-miles downhill to your starting point.
last edited: 6/13/12 9:38:20 AM”

“Thanks for the route! It looks great. We also considered a loop near Le Conte or Charlie's Bunion because we heard those areas were highlights and we want to see the best areas since we live so far away and don't here often. Also, should we do part of the AT, or is it busy with through hikers going north that time of year? I really wanted to do a loop from Clingman's Dome to Goshen Prong, Rough Creek and Sugarland, but the darn road doesn't open till April 1st and we need to start March 30th. Thanks again!”