I took time off work to go backpacking the weekend of October the 4th. I'm use the rest of my PTO days near Thanksgiving and go backpacking for my birthday. Anyway, I originally set out to go to Standing Indian Loop in the Nantahala National Forest near Franklin, NC. One of my bosses got wind of what I was doing and asked if he could give backpacking a try with me. (Another co-worker bought a mountain bike, so if anything else I can add inspiration to the resume.) So, I gave him a list of products to buy and gave him couple recommendations and what to look for in selecting gears. He bought a Tarp Tent Moment and Osprey 65 liter Atom. He bought REI sleep pad and LaFuma sleeping bag so he wouldn't be heavily invested if he doesn't like it, then if he likes backpacking he will upgrade. If he doesn't like it, looks like I'll be getting a new tent dirt cheap.

Anyway, to account for his fitness and being new to backpacking I thought the Smokies be a easier place and beginner friendly. (due to the amenities and proximity to water sources.) I planned a route that I thought be good for his first time, etc. Well, when I went online to fill out my permit (keep in mind this is my first time using this new system.) it made me click 6 boxes saying I agree to all of these rules. It was a weird experience and almost made it feel like the Smokies turned into a tourist trap. Like, where you go do an attraction (say sky diving), and they make you fill out all of these information where you agree you know the risk? This is probably a pointless thread to start, but I had to point this out for people looking go to the Smokies for the first time. I felt the whole shoving the rules down my throat and making me agree to it before I bought the permit was just too touristy and commercialized. Bleh.

Pick up a copy of the Complete Walker (any version) and read Colin's discussion of regulating the backcountry with "a key that fits the door." Just don't hurt your neck by nodding "yes" too fast or too often.