I am heading out for a 4 night hike of the AT through the Smokies in early October. I haven’t camped on the AT in GSMNP in over 20 years and when I did I obviously had to sleep in the shelters. I am looking forward to being able to use my hammock with the relaxed COVID rules. I plan to start at Fontana and will most likely hit Mollies Ridge and Derrick Knob for nights 1&2 where I remember plenty of room and lots of trees. After that my itinerary would have some flexibility depending upon permits. Thinking of maybe pushing to Icewater for night 3 and maybe Tri Corner Knob for night 4. (Mt Collins, Pecks, and Cosby Knob could all be options..I am aware of the bear warnings at Cosby). Any suggestions as to which shelters to shoot for or avoid when apply for permits with respect to good hanging and room for my tent bound buddy between Mt Collins, Icewater, Pecks, Tricorner, and Cosby? I assume Cosby should be avoided if at all possible.

Thanks for the feedback.