Foothills Trail Backpacking Trip
“Don’t even think about attempting the AT before training on the FT. Learn from these guides and be prepared.”
Enjoy one of Backpacker Magazine’s “Best Long Trails in the Country”
Breathtaking views of gorges and Waterfalls
Hanging Bridges with views of canyons and rivers
Glimpses of wildlife in a densely populated black bear habitat
Take a dip in cool streams and waterfalls after a long day of hiking
Enjoy springtime quiet and buds amidst the lush forests of Appalachia
Trip Highlights
The perfect trip for any backpacker interested in a challenge with the comfort of seasoned guides by your side
The Trip
The Foothills trail is a gem of a trail, peppered with waterfalls and gorges along the way. It’s considered “challenging” and is often used as a training ground for the Appalachian Trail as it is of considerable elevation loss and gain daily.
The entire trail stretches 76.2 miles and has over 14,000 ft of elevation gain.
Day 1: You will meet the Geeks at Oconee State Park at 3PM for gear shakedown. There you will have dinner and stay on site in a cabin (shared accomodations unless otherwise arranged)
Days 2-9: Hikes with distances from 6-11 miles daily with stops for lunch.
Day 10: The hike concludes at Table Rock State Park in North Carolina where we will be shuttled back to Oconee State Park
Questions?
Reach out here!
Questions? Reach out here!
Logistics
What you’ll need:
At least a 50L Backpack (that fits you)
Backpacking Tent
Sleeping Bag (temp rating at least 30 degrees F)
Sleeping Pad
Rain Jacket
Water bottle
Spoon/Fork
Plate/bowl
Coffee Cup (optional)
What’s included:
One night accommodations in a cabin at Oconee State Park (shared cabins unless otherwise arranged)
Dinner on Day 1, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Snacks on Days 2-9, Breakfast, lunch included on Day 10
Trekking poles
Water filters and treatment
Stove & fuel
Comprehensive First Aid Kit
Headlamps
A professional WFR certified guide
Detailed pre-trip planning emails and personalized correspondence
You will receive an email with a packing list, and additional information you’ll need to prepare for your trip.
Peaks & Geeks reserves the option to modify trip itineraries as necessary due to weather, conditions, illness, injury, group dynamics, or other unforeseen incidents.
Activity Level for This Trip
Rated Level 4
This an advanced backpacking trip that requires you to carry a backpack for extended periods of time on uneven terrain. There is some considerable elevation gain and loss with roots and muddy paths.
Expect to carry approximately 25-35 pounds on your back. You will be responsible for carrying your own pack, assigned gear, and necessities.
Carrying a heavy backpack for any distance is challenging— it’s different than day hiking. It’s important that all hikers be prepared and capable of hiking 10+ miles WHILE carrying a pack weighing 25-35 pounds 9 consecutive days.
Peaks & Geeks strives to provide both a physically and emotionally safe environment for hikers of all different backgrounds and ability levels. We hike at an inclusive pace and our group will stick together.
Please consider the physical demands carefully as it is for the safety and enjoyment of the group. All guests will be required to sign an Acknowledgement of Physical Demands as part of their waiver upon booking.
If you have ANY concerns regarding the activity level, please reach out here.