Taking a guided spirits tour through the Great Smoky Mountains offers a blend of light hiking, cultural history, and savoring craft beverages amidst a stunning forest setting. The day’s route typically covers 3-5 miles with gentle elevation gains up to 800 feet. Trails wind through thick hardwood forests where ancient oaks and maples seem to lean in, watching as you pass. Streams chatter nearby, daring you to pause and soak in the atmosphere before moving on toward the next distillery stop.

Packing smart ensures you enjoy every step without worry. Footwear is your first concern: a pair of sturdy hiking shoes or trail sneakers with reliable grip will keep you comfortable over rocky or root-strewn paths. The terrain is mostly smooth dirt with occasional gravel patches, but wet leaves or morning dew can make sections slick.

Layering is key because Smoky Mountain weather shifts quickly. Early mornings start cool, often accompanied by mist ghosts hovering low over the forest floor. A lightweight, water-resistant jacket will protect you from sudden showers or rising humidity when the sun warms the day.

Hydration matters. Although your guide will likely offer stops for drinks and a sampling of local spirits, bringing a 20-24 oz refillable water bottle means you can keep pace with the trail’s subtle challenges and forest air’s thirst-prompting qualities. Include a small snack such as nuts or dried fruit to maintain energy without heaviness.

Sunscreen and insect repellent are practical musts. Even on cloudy days, UV exposure in forest clearings can sneak up, while mosquitoes and biting flies tend to take full advantage of every break in the breeze. A wide-brimmed hat or a baseball cap can provide shade and keep bugs at bay.

A small backpack or daypack keeps your hands free and holds essentials including your camera or phone for capturing sweeping valley views and moments at the distillery’s rustic setups. Consider packing a portable phone charger for longer tours.

Finally, bring a spirit of curiosity and respect. Each stop on the tour shares stories—of mountain life, moonshining history, and craftsmanship—that invite you to engage deeply, not just sip lightly. The Smokies are fiercely themselves: gracious but not forgiving of unpreparedness. Pack well, walk thoughtfully, and the mountains will open their stories to you.