**REGISTRATION LINK WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL Wednesday, May 14th @ 8:30PM** Isn't it time you treated yourself to a remarkable weekend with breathtaking scenery and wonderful fellowship that can rejuvenate your soul? Well, if you have never been to "The Great Smoky Mountain National Park" to experience the clean, crisp and cool mountain air and the jaw-dropping mountain vistas, then this is definitely one experience you need to have! So, what better way to experience the richness and beauty of God's creation than with an outdoor camping adventure! DESTINATION: Join us as we journey to one of America’s most amazing and popular National Parks! Our Base camp will be in one of the most beautiful and sought-after destinations in the Park known as Cades Cove. If you have never been, then you are in for a special treat! This picturesque valley is surrounded by majestic mountains, abundant wildlife and historic rustic log homes of original residents which can be viewed as you travel along the beautiful 11-mile loop either by bike or by vehicle. AGENDA: Touring the valley loop, waterfall hikes, campfire devotionals, great meals, worship music, roasting marshmallows, organized connecting, bike riding, relaxation and just a beautiful time of community together, and if the Lord allows maybe the sight of herds of elk and possibly a bear or two. I'M NEW TO ECHO: Now if you are thinking, “I really don’t know anyone and this could be awkward”, I promise you, we will welcome you with open arms, and you will leave the weekend knowing almost everyone and feeling blessed. So come join us for an incredible time of fun and fellowship while soaking up God’s amazing wonders. DATES: Friday, July 4th – Sunday, July 6th (FOURTH OF JULY WEEKEND) (WE ARE ON RAIN OR SHINE) SPOTS ARE LIMITED AND MAY GO QUICKLY COST: $129.95 per person (includes all camping fees, meals, snacks and drinks) REGISTRATION: https://tinyurl.com/CadesCove2025 REFUNDS: Reservations are Non-refundable after Friday, June 20th. Unfortunately, last minute cancellations have been very hard to refill. IMPORTANT: 4th of July is observed on Friday, July 4th. Without traffic it is a 5+ hour ride. PLEASE DO NOT ARRIVE AFTER 9:00PM!!! That means you'll need to leave before 4:00pm (without traffic). Also, fireworks aren’t allowed in the National Park. HIKING LEVEL: D1 to D3+ on Waterfall hike. Hiking rain or shine. We will be driving approximately 15-20 min from campground to reach each trailhead. Abrams Falls is 5 miles round-trip and D3+ rating. TEMPS: Day 80’s, Night 60’s/70’s. It’s not Atlanta! PREPARE!!! ATTIRE: Prepare for warm, or rainy temps. 2 pairs of shoes in case one gets wet. Bring a jacket, just in case! WHAT TO BRING: Sleeping Bag, Pad (no bigger than twin), Pillow, Flashlight, Jacket, Rain coat, daypack, towel, toiletries, camera, Bible. OPTIONAL TO BRING: Your Bikes, Hiking poles, Camp chair, Bug spray, Sunblock TENT INFO: You may set up your own. If you have a large tent, we ask that you accommodate others. BATHROOMS: Have sinks and running water, but showers are 9 miles drive away in Townsend for a small fee. CAMP STORE: There is a camp store to purchase necessities in the campground. ACTIVITY OPTIONS: Bike rental is $10/hour and $40/day If you have your own bike it is free. Guided Horseback Riding is $40/hour. FOOD MENU: (subject to change) •Friday – Lunch on your own (none provided): Dinner- Burrito’s, beans and rice.• Saturday Breakfast- French Toast, Mixed Berries, Bacon Lunch - Sandwiches with all the fix’ins with snacks: Dinner – BBQ, Baked Beans, Cole Slaw. • Sunday - Assorted cereals and fruit with Grits and Oatmeal. We will also provide coffee, tea, hot chocolate, Orange Juice, soft drinks, water, fruit, chips and cookies. CARPOOLING: We will send an email out the week before to help make sure no one rides alone. TRAVEL TIME FROM ATL: Approximately 5+ Hours (without traffic). ADDRESS: Cades Cove, Tenn or the closest town is Townsend, Tenn which is 9 miles north outside of the Park. MOST SCENIC DRIVE: Coming north out of Cherokee travelling through the park. CAMPSITE: We are in Group sites G3 & G4. Parking is limited, so late comers can unload but will have to park a 1/4 miles away near the Ranger Station. LOST: Please call Cades Cove Ranger Station: 828-448-2472 (cell doesn’t work up there) PLEASE NOTE: Alcohol, cigarettes and animals are not permitted at Echo events. All events are for legally single adults. KEEP IN MIND: that there are always dangerous elements when out in nature: Cliffs, weather, animals, insects, reptiles, falling limbs or rocks, Poison Ivy, Oak, Sumac, etc. Trails may be un-maintained, slippery, icy, rocky and have steep embankments. Shoes may get muddy or wet. Many times the woods are your only bathroom. WAIVER: By attending, each person assumes all responsibility and liability for themselves and their actions and hereby releases Echo Ministries, its employees, directors, officers, agents, and volunteers from any and all liability resulting from any loss, injury, illness, damages, or death, while attending, participating or volunteering in this event. If you make payment for someone else, make sure that they receive this information and they understand and agree to all aspects of it, otherwise you’re responsible for them. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: gregford@echoministries.com or 770-316-9200