Soon I'm taking my daughter from UT on her 1st backpacking trip. I'm very excited that she has asked to start backpacking, can't wait to share this with her. The trip is steadily growing from she and I to now her, 3 of her girlfriends and 2 dogs and oh yeah me.
I don't know the experience level of her friends, but we'll find out. What I'm trying to figure is a good loop for a 1 night trip. I want it to be fairly easy, 4-5 miles per day, something that will spur her to want to continue this activity.
I'm thinking about a loop in Joyce Kilmer: Up the Naked Ground trail, camp at Naked Ground (Is the spring running there?) or up toward Bob Bald, then hike to Hangover lead and out (I forget the trail name, something Meadows, and don't have my map w/ me) the trail that ends up in the same parking lot that naked ground trail starts. Then take the girls into the Memorial Forest and just wait for the ooohs and aaahhhs. Wait that may be me.
Those trees almost bring tears to my eyes.
Any other good ideas that are close to Knoxville?
PS. guys I don't need any volunteers for guides on this trip. But, thanks for offering in advance.