It’s just like everywhere else: hike further and there are fewer people. The Smokies require permits for back country camping, and you have to reserve a spot at particular sites. Anyone can go to the site and see how many spots are available for particular spots. Doing so confirms that it’s really not that busy outside of day hikes.
>>2752529I did a loop from Clingman’s Dome. I got there early on a weekday with absolutely gorgeous weather and there were just a few people milling about. I was the only one on top of the observation area for a bit.
I ran into two groups at a shelter, and another family hiking on that first day. I didn’t see anyone else until day 4 (a lone older woman, then a pair of middle aged women, then two more small groups, all on the AT). When I got back to Clingman’s Dome it was Saturday, in the middle of the day, and it was absolutely jam packed (again, it was Saturday in the middle of the day).
