I organize an annual group hike with close friends, and this year we unfortunately have accumulated a party size of 8. We're going to do a section in the GSMNP this year with at least one night at a shelter (unfortunately) before taking a side trail to another camp.
Apart from being respectful at camp and adhering to backcountry principles and guidelines per individual, what can we do to minimize disturbance of other hikers?
For example, in past years with groups of 4-6, we have usually maintained a, what I feel is adequate, spacing of 100 yards up to almost a mile at times, but averaging around 200 yards or so.
What are special considerations that large groups like us should make?
Thanks