Elkmont - Great Smoky Mountains National Park
G
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2016

Ranger Review: Stanley Mug at Elkmont Campground

Elkmont is a nice little 200-site park right on the edge of the Smokies. It's seasonal, and if you're looking to go during the summertime or October when the leaves are changing, be sure to make plans way in advance. If you can snag one of the few walk-in sites, you'll get away a bit from other people. What makes this camp spot great is the proximity to area places to explore. Head north to Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area or journey south a bit to Newfound Gap or on out to Clingman's Dome, one of the most popular places in the park on the state line.

Gear review: I took along my new Stanley Vacuum Insulated Switchback Mug from last month's Cairn subscription box. I was most impressed with the grit guard keeping the drinking surface clean, but was actually pleasantly surprised at the insulation as well. I tested both ice water and coffee on the trip and would certainly recommend it for either. At 12 oz, it was a bit small for me on a hike longer than a few hours - in areas where there's not a refill spot. But with a filter and water access, it would be perfect for an all-day or overnight excursion. Doesn't weigh a lot and fits nicely in the outside pocket of my backpack or clipped on with a carabiner. Oh, and zero leaks!