The 2017 Earth Vase Pilgrimage in the Smoky Mountains will begin and end at the Enlightenment Stupa at Milarepa Retreat Center, just on the border of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This year’s journey will be moderate and easy in its intensity. Pilgrims should expect to walk only a few miles a day, and several days will be stationary. Backcountry camping standards will be the norm, bring your own equipment if possible.