Hi all,
I am planning a section hike through GSMNP this January. My wife wants to make sure I can stay in touch while I'm out, so I am looking into cell phone providers. It looks like Verizon is the only carrier to have any sort of coverage - the others look like there's just a blank spot on their coverage maps through the park.

Before I switch, I just wanted to ask and what other's have experienced out there. I don't want to get a contract so I'm hoping to find a cell provider with a prepaid plan that will work.

I think if there's no good cell coverage at all I will need to buy or rent a Spot or similar, but I'd rather just use my phone if it's possible.

Thanks!