This is a difficult backpack/hike. Total mileage is just over 23 miles, with most in day 2 (15 miles). The elevation gain is around 4,000 feet.

You must hike 10 miles with ease and have some backpacking experience to join in.

Day 1.

- Be at Jakes Creek trail trailhead at 3 pm.

- Hike to Campsite 27 (2.9 miles)

- Spend evening and night at Campsite 27

Day 2.

- Wake up at 5 am

- Prepare and eat breakfast

- Start at 7am and hike to Campsite 26 (2.6 miles)

- Start at 10 am and hike up  to the AT (Welch Ridge trail) and back to Campsite 26 (6.2 miles x 2 = 12.4 miles)

- Spend evening and night at Campsite 26.

Day 3.

- Wake up at 8am

- Hike back to the Jakes Creek trail trailhead (5.5 miles).