Backpacking routes/advice

Hi, all. I am looking for some advice on backpacking routes. I have about a dozen trips under my belt and have camped/hiked Great Smoky Mountains before but never for backpacking. This will be my husband‘s first time backpacking, we are both experienced hikers and in fairly decent shape. Trip is in 30 days, so time to lock down campsites.

We are coming from Charlotte so I am considering the Deep Creek area/ closer to the Bryson City side of things, but open to suggestions. We would like to keep our mileage in full-pack on the lower side, max 5 to 6 miles per day which I know limits us some. 3-4 nights over 2 sites would be ideal. Totally open to staying at camp for 2 nights and taking a nice day hike one day.

I would love some recommendations on routes and campsites, along with any areas to avoid. I have not been in the park since Helene.

Thanks!