Our Peaks to Pools – Smokies Backpacking and Lake Paddle Multisport Adventure combines two sports in one to create unforgettable memories. Fontana Lake is a gorgeous remote body of water surrounded by incredible history, verdant forests, stunning mountain peaks and pristine mountain creeks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Your adventure starts with an orientation at the Fontana Dam Visitors Center. Here we’ll go over gear and learn about our route before being shuttled over the mountain to begin our adventure up to the famous Appalachian Trail. We’ll enjoy two nights experiencing Thru Hiker life, enjoying incredible views from the Shuckstack fire tower and exploring some of the most remote stretches of the Eastern US. Our third night brings us to a campsite on beautiful Fontana Lake where we’ll put up our tents and jump into the cool, clean waters to refresh after our AT explorations before meeting the boat carrying our kayaks. The rest of the day is ours to explore with some lake kayaking before we settle in for our final night. Our last day, we’ll take a leisurely 3-5 mile paddle to the Fontana Marina where our shuttle will take the group to the Visitors Center for a refreshing shower and an exploration of the fascinating origins of the tallest dam in the East before saying goodbye. •3 Nights of  backpacking followed by kayaking​/​canoeing •Backpacking a section of the AT •Camping next to a lake •Incredible Views  •Beautiful Fontana Lake  Duration: 4 days | Difficulty: Intermediate Backpacker | Mileage: 5-10 Each Day | Elevation Change: Variable | Ages: 16+ (must be accompanied by someone over 18)

What is included

Professional backcountry guide, breakfasts, dinners, some snacks and all necessary gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, backpack). Your guide will carry a stove, fuel, water filter and first aid kit. Transportation is provided to and from the meeting location.  Excludes: Airport transfer, gratuity, personal items. Lodging before and after the trip.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation Morning: Arrival at Fontana Dam Visitors Center Meet your guides and fellow adventurers. Check-in and gear check: Ensure you have everything you need for the trek. Orientation session: Go over safety, the route, and what to expect on the trail. Late Morning: Shuttle to Trail Head A scenic shuttle ride over the mountain, enjoying views, before dipping down into the Tennessee side of the Smokies. Afternoon: Begin Backpacking! Start your first stretch in the Smokies. The terrain will vary, but the beauty of the forest and the mountains will be evident. Evening: Camp Setup & Dinner Prepare dinner (dehydrated meals that are easy to prepare with camp stoves). Enjoy time around the campfire (if permitted at the time of your trip) and share stories with fellow hikers. Overnight: Sleep under the stars in your tent, surrounded by the beauty of the Smokies. Day 2: Appalachian Trail, Views and Deep Forest Seclusion Morning: Breakfast & Pack Up Camp Wake up early, cook a quick breakfast, and get ready to hit the trail again. Pack up camp and make sure all gear is secured for the day. Late Morning: Hike up to, and over, the Appalachian Trail This section might be the toughest of the trail, but the reward at the top is absolutely worth it. Afternoon: Explore Remote Sections of the AT and Beyond Continue exploring the more remote, quieter stretches of the Appalachian Trail and surrounding areas, taking time to pause and take in the incredible scenery. Lunch on the trail or at a scenic viewpoint. Evening: Camp Setup & Dinner Prepare dinner (dehydrated meals that are easy to prepare with camp stoves). Enjoy time around the campfire (if permitted at the time of your trip) and share stories with fellow hikers. Overnight: Another night under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Day 3: Backpacking and Fontana Lake Morning: Breakfast & Pack Up Camp Enjoy a hearty breakfast before packing up camp for the final stretch of the backpacking portion of the trip. Late Morning: Hike Down to Fontana Lake Today’s hike is a mix of downhill and moderate terrain as you make your way to the shores of beautiful Fontana Lake. This section is stunning. Afternoon: Arrive at Campsite by Fontana Lake Set up camp by the lake. Take a refreshing swim in the cool waters of Fontana Lake. Late Afternoon: Kayaking, Swimming or Relaxing on Fontana Lake Begin your kayaking adventure on the serene, clear waters of Fontana Lake. Paddle around to explore secluded coves, inlets, and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop. Evening: Camp by Fontana Lake & Dinner Settle in at your lakeside campsite, where you can enjoy a relaxed dinner. Reflect on the adventure and enjoy the tranquil lake atmosphere as night falls. Overnight: Sleep under the trees next to the lake, with the sound of the water lapping against the shore. Day 4: Final Paddle & Return to Fontana Dam Visitors Center Morning: Breakfast & Pack Up Camp Enjoy a calm breakfast by the lake before packing up your gear and getting ready for the last adventure of the trip. Late Morning: Paddle to Fontana Marina Paddle at a relaxed pace for 3-5 miles, taking in the sights and sounds of the lake and its surrounding mountains. This is a great chance for reflection on the journey so far and to enjoy some last moments on the water. Afternoon: Arrive at Fontana Marina & Shuttle Back to Visitors Center Arrive at the marina where a shuttle will be waiting to take you back to the Fontana Dam Visitors Center. Once there, you’ll get a chance to freshen up with a shower and explore the history of the Fontana Dam, the tallest in the Eastern United States. Late Afternoon: Explore Fontana Dam Visitors Center Take some time to learn about the dam’s fascinating history, construction, and importance to the region. Say your goodbyes to fellow adventurers, swap contact info, and reflect on the experience. Key Details to Remember: Difficulty: Intermediate (Expect moderate to challenging terrain) Mileage: 5-10 miles per day (backpacking portion) Ages: 16+ (with an adult if under 18) What to Bring: Appropriate backpacking gear (tent, sleeping bag, stove, food), lightweight clothing for paddling, personal items, and gear for swimming. Safety: Always follow guide instructions, stay hydrated