From Asheville: 3-Day Track and Backpack Appalachian Trail

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day backpacking adventure along the renowned Appalachian Trail, starting right from Asheville, North Carolina. This guided trek through the stunning Shining Rock Wilderness promises breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and memorable sunset dinners – all within a small group setting. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking a new challenge, this journey will test your limits and immerse you in the raw beauty of the great outdoors. But what awaits those who push their boundaries and embrace the wilderness? Discover the answer as you delve deeper into this captivating Appalachian odyssey.

Key Points

• This 3-day Appalachian Trail backpacking trip in North Carolina’s Shining Rock Wilderness offers a discounted rate starting at €723.16 per person.
• The itinerary includes hiking to scenic landmarks like Looking Glass Falls and Shining Rock, with varying daily distances from 5 to 9 miles.
• The trip provides meals, transportation, and backcountry camping for a seamless experience, with a maximum group size of 8 participants.
• Participants must be in good physical condition, with prior hiking and camping experience, to tackle the strenuous terrain and elevation changes.
• The trip departs from Asheville, with private transportation provided to the trailhead, and has a clear cancellation policy with refund options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The 3-day Appalachian Trail backpacking trip in North Carolina’s Shining Rock Wilderness offers adventure-seekers a chance to explore the scenic trails at a discounted rate of up to 20% off the regular price.

Priced from €723.16 per person, the 3-day excursion is limited to just 8 participants and is led in English. Travelers can cancel up to 56 days in advance for an 80% refund.

The trip covers a range of distances and elevation gains over the three days, with options to summit Cold Mountain or explore the Shining Rock area.

Included amenities like meals, transportation, and backcountry camping ensure a seamless and immersive experience in the great outdoors.

Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary for this 3-day Appalachian Trail backpacking trip showcases the stunning natural beauty of North Carolina’s Shining Rock Wilderness. On Day 1, you will drive from Asheville to Looking Glass Falls before embarking on a hike along the Art Loeb Trail, crossing Black Balsam Knob and Tennent Mountain. They’ll enjoy lunch atop the summits or in the grassy meadows before setting up camp near Shining Rock Gap and savoring a sunset dinner on Shining Rock itself.

Day	Distance	Elevation Gain
1	~8 km (5 miles)	305 m (1000 feet)
2	8 km (5 miles) to 14 km (9 miles)	230 m (750 feet) to 550 m (1795 feet)
3	~6 km (4 miles)	780 m (2550 feet)

Included Amenities

This 3-day Appalachian Trail backpacking trip includes all the essential amenities to ensure a comfortable and memorable adventure.

Meals for the duration encompass 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners, allowing participants to refuel and savor the scenery.

Private transportation from Asheville provides a hassle-free shuttle to the trailhead, while backcountry camping for 2 nights immerses guests in the wilderness.

The guided hikes, visits to notable landmarks like Looking Glass Falls, and the opportunity to witness diverse flora and fauna further enhance the experience.

With a maximum group size of 8, this trip offers an intimate and personalized exploration of North Carolina’s Appalachian Trail and Shining Rock Wilderness.

Experience and Scenery

Scenic vistas along the trails captivate hikers, offering panoramic views of the rugged Appalachian landscape. From the summit of Cold Mountain, participants can gaze out over the sweeping valleys and peaks of Pisgah National Forest.

The hike to Shining Rock, a massive granite outcrop, provides a chance to witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the group will enjoy memorable dinners prepared by the leader, savoring the day’s adventures against a backdrop of breathtaking sunset views.

These moments of beauty and serenity blend seamlessly with the physical challenge of the trail, creating an unforgettable Appalachian experience.

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Participant Requirements

Prospective participants must be in good physical condition, as the Appalachian Trail hike involves strenuous terrain and significant elevation changes. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or who are pregnant should refrain from this trip for safety reasons.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the following requirements apply:

1. Participants must be able to hike up to 14 km (9 miles) per day with a backpack.

2. Participants should have prior experience with hiking and camping, as the trip involves backcountry camping for two nights.

3. The minimum age for participation is 18 years old, and minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian.

4. All participants must attend a mandatory pre-trip briefing to review safety protocols and gear requirements.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the Appalachian Trail backpacking trip is at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Asheville Downtown, located at 42 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 28805, USA. This convenient location makes it easy for participants to meet up and begin their exciting 3-day adventure. From here, the group will be transported by private vehicle to the trailhead, ensuring a seamless start to the journey. The hotel’s amenities and proximity to the Appalachian Trail provide a comfortable and stress-free experience for all participants.

What to Expect	Meeting Point
Convenient location	Holiday Inn Express & Suites Asheville Downtown
Private transportation	42 Tunnel Road, Asheville, 28805, USA
Comfortable accommodations	Close to Appalachian Trail trailhead
Stress-free start to the adventure	Easy meeting point for all participants

Cancellation Policy

In an article titled ‘From Asheville: 3-Day Track and Backpack Appalachian Trail’, it’s now time to discuss the Cancellation Policy.

Participants can cancel their Appalachian Trail backpacking trip up to 56 days in advance for an 80% refund, as per the cancellation policy. Here are the key details:

1. Cancellations made at least 56 days before the trip start date are eligible for an 80% refund.

2. Cancellations between 55-28 days prior to the trip are eligible for a 50% refund.

3. Cancellations within 27 days of the trip start date aren’t eligible for a refund.

4. No refunds are provided for no-shows or early departures once the trip has commenced.

Hike Difficulty and Terrain

The Appalachian Trail’s terrain through North Carolina’s Shining Rock Wilderness poses moderate challenges, featuring a mix of gradual inclines, rocky sections, and occasional steep ascents.

Participants can expect to encounter varied landscapes, including forested trails, open meadows, and panoramic summit views along the route.

While the trails are well-maintained, hikers should be prepared for some strenuous sections, particularly on the way to Cold Mountain and other notable peaks.

The hikes will require a good level of fitness and endurance, but the rewards of reaching the summits and experiencing the stunning scenery make the effort well worth it.

Proper packing, hydration, and appropriate footwear are essential for a successful and enjoyable trek along the Appalachian Trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Gear Should I Bring on the Hike?

When hiking the Appalachian Trail, one should bring a backpack, sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, rain gear, a water bottle, snacks, a headlamp, and any necessary personal items. The weather and terrain will dictate the specific gear needed.

How Much Water Should I Carry Each Day?

Hikers should carry at least 2-3 liters of water per day on this hike. Water consumption will vary depending on weather conditions, difficulty of terrain, and individual needs. Proper hydration is essential for a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip.

Can I Use My Own Camping Equipment?

Yes, participants are welcome to use their own camping equipment on the 3-day Appalachian Trail trek. The trip organizer can provide a recommended gear list, but personal gear is acceptable as long as it meets the necessary requirements.

Is There an Option to Do a Day Hike Only?

Yes, there is an option to do a day hike only. The itinerary includes a shorter hike along "the Narrows" on Day 2 for those who don’t want to do the full backpacking trip.

How Much Weight Should I Expect to Carry in My Backpack?

Hikers can expect to carry 20-30 pounds in their backpacks for a 3-day backpacking trip. This includes essentials like food, water, camping gear, and extra clothing. The exact weight will depend on the individual’s gear and packing choices.

Recap

This 3-day Appalachian Trail backpacking adventure from Asheville offers a chance to explore North Carolina’s stunning Shining Rock Wilderness.

With breathtaking vistas, diverse wildlife, and memorable sunset dinners, the trip promises both challenge and beauty in the heart of nature.

Participants must be in good physical condition and have prior camping experience to fully enjoy this guided, limited-group excursion.

You can check if your dates are available here: