Great Smoky Mountains Backcountry
Great Smoky Mountains Backcountry is a moderate 120+ miles off-road trail near Gatlinburg, TN. It requires a properly built 4x4 with All-terrain tires, 4WD capability, Tow strap and is best run April - November. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.
Trail Conditions
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The Great Smoky Mountains represent the crown jewel of the Appalachian chain, where ancient peaks draped in old-growth forest rise above mist-filled valleys. Forest roads skirting the national park boundary access a world of biodiversity rivaling tropical rainforests, over 19,000 documented species with scientists estimating another 80,000 yet to be discovered. The network of forest roads through Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests connects historic mountain communities, abandoned homesteads, and viewpoints where the signature blue haze stretches to the horizon. Fall transforms these mountains into a painter's palette of amber, crimson, and gold.
Fun Facts
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the US with over 12 million visitors annually.
The 'smoke' is actually volatile organic compounds released by the dense vegetation, creating the signature blue haze.
The park contains more tree species than all of northern Europe combined.
Synchronous fireflies in the Smokies blink in unison, one of only two places in the world this occurs.
🛞 Tires
🔧 Suspension
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
🛡️ Protection
Closest campgrounds to Great Smoky Mountains Backcountry:
- Moonshine Hollow Campground · Gatlinburg · 4 mi
- Elkmont Campground · Gatlinburg · 4 mi
- Elkmont Group Campground · Gatlinburg · 4 mi
- Smokemont Group Campground · Gatlinburg · 13 mi
Where to Camp
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Gatlinburg, TN
5-Day Forecast
Nearby Trails
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.