The shelter is a classic three-sided AT shelter. Remember that all overnight stays (other than AT thru-hikers) must be reserved through the GSMNP backcountry office or online. Excellent water source a few feet from the shelter.

The area around the shelter is high, rocky, and remote. Expect 10-15 degrees less than the Park headquarters. There are no less than seven peaks over 6k feet an easy hike from the shelter, which is why this is often used as the base camp for folks hiking the southern 6ers challenge.