Smokies Centennial Challenge – Hike 100

Posted by Jeff on Jan 18, 2016 @ 6:45 am in Hiking News | 0 comments | Last modified: January 17, 2016

This year Great Smoky Mountains National Park is celebrating the Centennial of the National Park Service. To honor the first 100 years of the National Park Service and launch into the next century, the Park Superintendent has committed to hiking 100 miles of park trails during 2016 – and he invites you to join in on this challenge.

Whether you are new to hiking in the Smokies or have seen most or all the trails in the park before, you are encouraged to set a goal of reaching 100 miles during this special year of celebration, between January 1-December 6, 2016.

You may hike any 100 miles of maintained trails in the park. Your miles can include everything from front country nature trails to the extensive trail network in the backcountry. You may hike the same trail repeatedly or different trails; and you may hike them solo, with a group or even with a guide. The goal is to inspire you to explore and enjoy the many benefits the park has to offer.

There are more frequently asked questions here.

Explore the park website for information about hiking safety, trail recommendations, weather, road and trail closures, and the park’s trail map. If you plan to include overnight trips in your hiking plan, be sure to obtain a reservation and permit for all overnight stays in the backcountry.

When you are ready to take on this challenge, plan your hikes and get out on a trail. Download a mileage log that you may use to keep track of your miles.

After you have hiked 100 miles this year, go here to send an email to let them know. You will then receive information about the Hike 100 Celebration on Thursday, December 8, 2016 to receive your commemorative “Smokies Centennial Challenge – Hike 100” pin.