Proposed Backcountry Fee At Great Smoky Mountains National Park Would Be A First For Appalachian Trail Thru-Hikers
![](https://www.nationalparkstraveler.org/sites/default/files/styles/npt_square2/public/default_images/npt_icons_0.png?itok=8J64sZS9)
A proposal to charge for overnight stays in the backcountry of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, if enacted, would create the first area along the 2,180-mile Appalachian National Scenic Trail where thru-hikers would have to pay to lay down for the night.