I second what OregonMouse says. People like to jump the gun in the beginning when they get all their gear. I wasnt any different. One bad night in the backcountry unprepared could end your happiness for your new found hobby and now you are stuck with expensive gear. Take it slow and ask a ton of questions. People like OregonMouse are very friendly on here and will answer most of your question and they have years of experience. There are things you need to know that you might not know like The Smokies are in bear country. Do you have a bear bag or canister? Do you know how to hang your food to protect it from bears? There is a lot to consider