GATLINBURG, Tenn. (WOKI) —The National Park Services urges visitors to plan ahead, prepare for changing conditions and know their personal limits while recreating in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Park rangers have been responding to an increased number of emergencies and are reminding visitors that rescue is not a certainty.
In March, park rangers have responded to a significant volume of backcountry and frontcountry emergencies, including:
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18 backcountry search and rescue incidents, including 2 Tennessee Army National Guard hoist extractions and 4 technical rope rescues.
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15 front‑country EMS calls, with 4 patients transported by UT Medical Center Life Flight.
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5 backcountry 911 calls resolved through phone contact, preventing the need for full rescue responses.
Emergencies can happen to even experienced hikers, but many are preventable with the right awareness and preparation. Reducing avoidable risks helps keep park rangers available for the most critical emergencies. Just recently, rangers have provided life‑saving care multiple times—including yesterday, when rangers successfully resuscitated a patient on Kuwohi.
Hiking in the Smokies carries inherent risks, and trail conditions can change quickly due to natural forces. Be prepared for swollen streams, washed‑out bridges, downed trees and erosion. If conditions feel unsafe or a hike becomes more difficult than expected, turn back—your safety is your responsibility. In an emergency, call 911 and clearly state your location. If you have no cell service, send someone for help.
Visitors are responsible for:
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Researching your route and destination: Trails vary widely in difficulty, elevation gain and exposure. Whether you’re day hiking or backpacking, come with a plan before you arrive to the park. Call the backcountry office for at 865-436-1297 for backcountry trip planning advice.
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Carrying the right gear: Essentials include plenty of water, warm layers, rain protection, food, a map and a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries. Learn about the 10 essentials.
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Having a backup plan: Parking areas and popular trailheads often fill early, which may mean you need to hike a different trail. Illegally parked vehicles will be ticketed or towed.
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Knowing your limits: Choose activities that match your physical ability, comfort level and experience with backcountry terrain.
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Staying weather-aware: Conditions in the mountains can shift rapidly, especially during spring.
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Telling someone your plan: Share details about where you’re going and when you expect to return. Emergencies can happen to anyone!
The park’s new Preventative Search and Rescue Team (funded by parking tags) continue their work to share information on hiking safety, prevent emergencies and respond quickly when help is needed. But visitor preparation remains the key to preventing avoidable incidents.
Visitors should check the park website for trip planning resources, trail information, and real‑time updates.
