After Busy March, GSMNP Says Visitors Need To Prepare

After several emergency incidents happened in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the month of March, park officials are wanting to remind visitors to plan ahead, prepare for changing conditions and know their personal limits. In March, park rangers responded to 18 backcountry search and rescue incidents, including 2 Tennessee Army National Guard hoist extractions and 4 technical rope rescues. There were also 15 front country EMS calls, with 4 patients transported by UT Medical Center Life Flight. Park Rangers want to remind park visitors that rescue is not always a certainty.

Emergencies do happen when hiking in the park, but park officials say many can be prevented with the proper preparation. First, research your route and destination…which includes trail difficulty and the gain in elevation. Pack plenty of water, dress in warm layers as tempertures and weather conditions can change in the mountains quickly, espcially in the spring. Carry rain protection, food, a map and a flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries. Have and research a backup plan in case the parking area for your trail is full. Choose activities that match your physical ability, comfort level and your experience with backcountry terrain. If conditions feel unsafe or a hike becomes more difficult than expected, turn back. Finally, tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to return.

You can find all these tips and more information about activities in the national park by going to https://www.nps.gov/grsm