Planning on a section of the AT through the Smoky Mountains in April. I haven't hiked the Smokies in over ten years and have some questions for those of you who have more experience. Permits are required, overnight in the shelters are required unless I dare to get caught and fined by Rangers/Ridgerunners. I understand Thru hikers can overnight in personal shelters if shelter is full. What are the chances that even though I have a permit and plan to stay the night in the shelter that I arrive and other hikers whom do not have permits to stay in the shelter are there claiming space? The reason I ask, is that I prefer to hammock hang. I will need an inflatable pad for the shelter but dont want to carry a pad and hammock gear for a just in case situation. Thinking I should bring a tent for a just in case situation. Is this even something I should worry about?

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FWIW, my lighterpack with hammock gear (without food/water & worn clothing) is 17.83 lbs.

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Will be cross posting communities for knowledge.