When you are in the area, check out the hikes given by the local hiking clubs. All hikes are run by volunteers. Most have their hike schedule on the web.

Before you go on a hike as a guest,

• Call the leader to make sure that the hike is appropriate for guests in general and for you, in particular,
• Bring the right gear for the hike,
• Confirm the time and location of the meeting point,
• Get to the meeting point 15 minutes before,
• If you get a ride to the trailhead from another hiker, be prepared to chip in for the cost of the ride. Have several small bills handy,
• Thank the leader at the end of the hike.
• If you have gone on more than two hikes with a club, it is time to join the club.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy
Dedicated to the conservation of the A.T.

Carolina Mountain Club
Hiking club based in Asheville

High Country Hikers
Hiking club based in Hendersonville

Smoky Mountains Hiking Club
Hiking club based in Knoxville

Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club
Hiking club based E. TN and SW VA