More recently, local authorities have challenged this and said that the mountain is named after his less famous physicist brother, John Le Conte. Matt Guenther. Mt. While the first section of the Alum Cave trail may seem like it’s a breeze with its beaten path, the trail’s level of difficulty and intensity quickly increase as stairs, bridges, drop-offs and steep inclines are introduced. About 3.5 miles into the route, visitors will pass Grotto Falls. Total Time: 6-8 hours. Trillium Gap Trail. At the 5.5 mile mark, you will have reached the summit, or High Top. Mount Le Conte is a 20.1 kilometer lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. LeConte - Hiking. LeConte is one of the most popular hikes in the Smokies, and though it may sounds strenuous, it is not technically challenging and can be completed by anyone who is in generally good shape. You can do so here on their website or contact them at reservations@lecontelodge.com. Pretty brutal but happy to make it. The Boulevard Trail. Photos. However, you can purchase a sack lunch for your hike down for $10. Either way, it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings and know what to do if you come in contact with a black bear. Affiliate Disclaimer As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Hiking to the top of this mountain in East Tennessee provides one of the most breathtaking night views of the state you'll ever find. LeConte, you will need to hike 2.3 miles to Alum Cave and continue on the trail for approximately 5.5 miles. Very limited at store, go prepared. It's a very popular hike so you won't have the trail to yourself, but the views are totally worth it. Primary Menu. Finish at the gate at the Porter's Creek Trailhead. Hikers should also be made aware that during winter months, these sections of the trail are typically frozen, so proper footwear is very important. Leconte. Mt. Matt Guenther. great traction for walking over slippery rocks, Hiking the Alum Cave Trail in the Smoky Mountains, The Hike to Twin Falls at Rock Island State Park, Canoeing and Camping at Big South Fork from Station Camp to Blue Heron, Hiking Clingmans Dome to Newfound Gap via the Appalachian Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains. A lot of hikers recommend using trekking poles year round on this trail as well, due to the steep decline on your way back down. if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-tnhikingreport_com-leader-3-0')};When selecting footwear for this hike, make sure you choose something that is both comfortable and has great traction for walking over slippery rocks. So doing the Myrtle Point Trail as part of your Mt LeConte day hike will add on time and distance to your already long hike. Thanks! Pack accordingly, as a general rule you will loose about 5 degrees for every 1000 feet you climb but this can vary. We pass by the cairn and then begin our long descent towards Newfound Gap. People from around the world come to this spot just to see the untouched beauty that is Mt. Name * Email * Website. The parking lot is on the left. Should you choose to take a break here, there are most often always friendly hikers there to greet you, take your photo in front of the lodge, and answer any questions you may have. On the other side of this section of dense forest, you will be met with a sign for Rainbow Falls, LeConte Lodge, or the LeConte Summit. Net climb: 1080 feet. LeConte, although with these clear skies a ridge walk like The Boulevard are hard to beat. We jump onto the Boulevard Trail and start our final short ascent towards the actual summit of LeConte. Most beautiful hike I’ve ever done. LeConte vary widely depending on elevation. It is accessible only by hiking and is the only place in the Smoky Mountains where a visitor can sleep overnight in a snug permanent structure. This is one of the most popular trails in the national park, so it is advised to arrive early no matter what time of year. LeConte in the Smoky Mountains begins from the Trillium Gap Trailhead, located just outside of Gatlinburg. Conditions on Mt. Leconte. Lodge is rustic but unforgettable. July 5, 2018 July 5, 2018 outandaboutinsevierville 5 Comments. The Tour de LeConte Challenge is a 45-mile hike via all 6 summit trails to Mt. LeConte at an elevation of about 6400 feet. Not only is it the third highest point in the park, but it's also the highest peak that is completely within the state of Tennessee, and from base to summit, it's the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi. You will know you have reached it by the pile of rocks just off the main trail to your right. LeConte Hiking Community. LeConte. I never encountered any wildlife. At 0.2 miles past LeConte Lodge, you can turn right and check out Cliff Top, which is the best location for sunset views. At the top you will find the LeConte Lodge which provides the only commercial lodging in the national park, as it operates about 10 rustic cabins with no electricity or appliances. Including the sunset and sunrise trek, the hike totals 16 miles in two days. This is the same trail that takes us to Charlie’s Bunion, a rock outcropping with spectacular vistas. While you could carry small children for the duration of this hike, it could limit your own personal mobility. Le Conte and Counting. As with most day hikes, you’ll want to make sure you’ve packed all of the essentials in your backpack. LeConte variations begin at 10mile round trip hikes. But we kept hiking, as we had overnight reservations at LeConte Lodge at the top of Mt. Worth the climb! Starting from Light 8 in Gatlinburg turn onto Historic Nature Trail / Airport Road. You can also choose to hike just to Alum Cave (4.6 miles RT, +1100 ft elevation) for an easier but still gorgeous hike. and stay if you’d like, as well as a small restaurant and gift shop. Took my 3 friends and I (pretty fit and in our 20s) about 5 hours round trip with stops here and there. I absolutely loved this trail. Mt. hiking mt leconte smoky mountains. Beautiful trail but be prepared for crowds (especially at the peak and at the bottom below the alum cave). Hiking Forest Views Waterfall No dogs. Perfect day not a cloud in the sky. And once in the summit area, it’s basically a side trail to get to Myrtle Point. The trail is primarily used for hiking. As they passed us hiking back down the trail, some looked triumphant in having made it to the top. Dinner includes beef, gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, baked apples and the menu may change for those staying multiple nights. Hiking up to Myrtle Point and Mt LeConte will be at least 10+ miles round trip, possibly many miles more depending on the route you take. We recommend arriving at the trailhead early, as parking spaces fill up quickly during the lodge season. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is a 10.6 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. If you are wanting to summit Mt. Starting the Alum Cave Hike to Mount Leconte. You just successfully hiked to the third highest peak in the Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the highest peak in Tennessee.if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-tnhikingreport_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0')}; Mt. Wildlife is also frequently spotted on this trail. Comment. Mt. Mount LeConte is arguably the most famous mountain in Great Smoky Mountains National Park despite being the 3rd highest. LeConte is named after, the United States Geological Survey lists famous geologist, Joseph Le Conte, as the man for whom the mountain is named. When planning your trip, keep in mind that LeConte Lodge does close for the winter in November. 2. Hiking the Appalachian Trail to the Boulevard Trail The Boulevard Trail hike to Mt. On our second trip to LeConte, a hiker stopped and told us other hikers had spotted a bear along the first section of the trail. In a recent post, we covered all of the basics of the Alum Cave trail. As the trail continues, there are many spots where cable handrails have been installed to assist hikers. Although it is … Do not stop at the lodge, keep going! The hike to Mt. The Mount Leconte hiking trail was the highlight of our most recent trip to Tennessee in the Smoky Mountains National Park! LeConte and stay in the lodge between now and October 15, 2020. The hike up to the Grotto Falls and then you’ll continue on the Trillium Gap Trail the … 1. Hike Mt LeConte My First Trek Up Mount LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Beautiful views of the Appalachian and smoky mountains once you reach the top of the summit. Nicely marked. LeConte Lodge also has lunch sacks available for purchase from 12:00 – 5:00. The Alum Cave Trail starts at the Alum Cave Bluffs Trailhead parking lot, … This hike would be considered one of the more difficult ones. Start early, and plan on about 7-8 hours round trip to enjoy the view. Try to start early, around 7 or 8. Ask Kim C about Mount LeConte. The 6,593 foot summit of Mt. Very hard!!!! I hadn’t thought much lately about Mt. The AT climbs gradually for about 2.7 miles before reaching the Boulevard Trail junction. In the winter, this precipitation can transform into 2-3 foot long icicles and may pose a risk during your hike. The hike up was HARD (my legs are jello days later) but glad we did it. On your way to the top, you will be met with a couple side trails that offer panoramic views. Some hikers were doing the roundtrip hike that day. 3,187 talking about this. LeConte Lodge before we descend the mountain. Keep a look out for black bears. There are many ways to summit Mt. The LeConte Lodge Twitter is a great resource for checking the weather before your hike. LeConte is an awesome hike and such a great workout. Great day and amazing views at the top. LeConte. It took us 10 hours to hike from the bottom of the Alum Cave trail all the way up to Mt Leconte Lodge, and then back down (with plenty of stops and a lunch break at the top). The Tour de LeConte Challenge is a 45-mile hike via all 6 summit trails to Mt. It is situated on an open glade just below the summit of Mt. LeConte Lodge is the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States and is a must see for anyone venturing up the mountain. Leconte she earned the nickname Little Jumper because when walking on the trials she stopped to jump on […] Reply. I would recommend this hike to everyone who is able to do it. Le Conte is one of the most iconic mountains in Great Smoky National Park. You might also notice water dripping from Alum Cave. The Boulevard Trail hike to Mt. LeConte, with over 11,000 feet in elevation gain that must be completed in 24 hours LeConte until last April (2015) when two high school seniors, Kyle McMullen and Chad Gibson, contacted me about how to hike all of the LeConte trails in one whack. There are even points along the way to see some amazing views. Named after the peak that is sits on, the lodge is only accessible by foot. Not what expected at all. Cold at the top when we went in August so bring a long sleeve shirt or something. While it’s is not certain who exactly Mt. Don’t just stop at Alum Cave, go all the way to the top! 1.1K likes. Starting from Light 8 in Gatlinburg, turn onto Historic Nature Trail / Airport Road. We decided to have a quick snack break before continuing on to the summit. Depending on the season, you will need to adjust your gear for this hike. You will want to keep right and continue on the trail for a short distance. On another note, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail appears to have been opened for the season a little early, so guests can now access … This is a wonderful hike that is lush with plant life and gradually offers amazing views on the way up to Mt. Made possible by. Mt. Or, if you’re feeling extra ambitious (like we were), visit the Cliff Tops, and then continue to the mountain summit, then to Myrtle Point, and back down the mountain for a strenuous 12-mile hike. LeConte Lodge sits atop the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. The Two Alpacas hike Welch’s Point near Sparta, TN as they train to hike Mt LeConte. Great trail. The Rainbow Falls trail is not the easiest route to take to the famous summit of Mount Leconte but it does offer some fantastic opportunities or viewing multiple waterfalls and spring wildflowers. if(typeof __ez_fad_position != 'undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-tnhikingreport_com-leader-4-0')};While hiking on the Alum Cave Trail, you will see signs for  Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, LeConte Lodge® is the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States. I hiked to Mt Leconte via the Trillium Gap. During the expedition, they camped in a large tent, which later became a cabin and is now LeConte Lodge. The trail is primarily used for hiking and is best used from April until November. Long day in the smokeys but worth it forsure! LeConte Lodge directly. Mt. Children who can walk the full 11.0 mile hike and back should be more than capable of completing this trail. mt leconte hike. Great view and peaceful moments!! LeConte vary widely depending on elevation. Leconte. It’s also worth noting that weather at higher elevations is often unpredictable. However, to get to the top of the mountain, you first have to trek to Alum Cave. Parking/Trailhead. I did this hike in the rain and still loved every minute of it. The hike down Bullhead is 7 miles from LeConte Lodge, and takes about 3.5 hours hiking at a good pace. Length 10.6 miElevation gain 2,919 ftRoute type Out & back. 35.6295702, -83.4517407. Many people assume that because this hike begins at such a high elevation that this must be the easiest trail to the summit of Mt. At least 13.4 miles round trip hike. The adventure begins at the Alum Cave Trailhead, accessible via Highway 441 North from the Ocanaluftee Visitor Center just outside Cherokee, or via Highway 441 South from the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg (view maps and driving directions).The start of the hike is denoted by ample signage alongside the trailhead’s two parking lots. Mt. Between the stunning panoramic views, the steep elevation gain in only 5.5 miles, and the opportunity to spend some time relaxing at the infamous LeConte Lodge before you reach the summit, there wonders on this hike are endless. Due to high winds and road closures our plan turned into 9 miles. LeConte, with a few welcomed descents and level stretches. There's an option to stay in the lodging at the top (book ahead) or buy a sack lunch. About. When you get to the lodge go the extra .2 miles to the cliff for an incredible view of the smokies. Nestled high up in the Smoky Mountains is Mount LeConte Lodge. Details. Honestly, it isn't really worth hiking past the Alum Bluffs unless you really … Nonetheless, a tough hike thats mostly uphill, but well worth the trek. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. The amount of time it takes you to complete the trail will vary depending on your pace and how frequently you stop to … The AT climbs gradually for about 2.7 miles before reaching the Boulevard Trail junction. LeConte, or for some hikers, it’s a new adventure and a path back down the mountain. On your left will be a short trail that leads you to LeConte Lodge. Start at the Grotto Falls trailhead off of Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. At 5.2 miles, Trillium Gap Trail will be on your left. Not gonna lie it was a long hike. Reviewed October 3, 2015 . Descend again the Trillium Gap Trail and then down Brushy Mountain and finally Porter's Creek Trail. Hike the Trillium Gap Trail to Mt LeConte summit. The Mount Leconte trail via the Alum Cave hike is one of the most popular and best hikes in Great Smoky Mountain National Park. I have known these young men for years, including having them in my Sunday School class when they were 10 th graders. We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. About the Alum Cave to Mt. I recommend exploring all around the top but Cliff Tops was my favorite spot up there. excellent hike up the alum cave trail , i try to go at least twice a year ..is moderate hike approximately 3 hours to the top where you fine the lodge and small cabins built in the 1930s , along the way is trails full of ever changing sights . LeConte, with over 11,000 feet in elevation gain that must be completed in 24 hours Hike Mount LeConte. Some nice small waterfalls along the way. Follow the Alum Cave Creek to begin your hike. 3993 ft. Route Type . We could not have asked for a better day for a hike to Mount LeConte. The road to the trial head was closed so it added about 2 miles to the We did Rainbow Falls Trail and underestimated hiking time up, but even with arriving late (past check in) the LeConte lodge team was fantastic. In the spring and summer, you’ll make to make sure you have a raincoat with you, just in case you get caught in a thunderstorm. I LOVED Chrystal Juaire’s review. A few others looked like they were going to be struggling to make it to the car. Leconte @ Cliff Tops. LeConte! It took us about about 7 hours for the entire hike round trip, and that time does include about 30 minutes at the top between the lodge and looking at the views. Hikers should note that in the areas where the handrails have been installed, there are steep drop offs on the opposite side of the trail. This is a classic must do hike if ever visiting the Smoky Mountains. Get here early, because this parking lot fills up fast. Adams was an enthusiastic hiker and adventurer and spent most of his time outdoors. We include a fresh and locally sourced lunch, as well as fruits during the hike. While these elevation accolades are certainly impressive, they don't quite tell Le Conte's entire story. Review of Mount LeConte. Due to it being the shortest you will average an elevation gain of 500ft per mile. The elevation of Mount Leconte is about 6,594 feet. Julie Sherman Nashville, Hi Julie, you’ll need to contact Mt. Even if your goal is to summit LeConte, make sure you take time to enjoy all of the sights and scenery the Alum Cave trail has to offer. Trillium Gap is the longest Mt LeConte trail with Bullhead in second place. Total Miles: 11 miles Total Elevation Gain: 2763 ft. LeConte in the Smokies begins from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead, located just outside of Gatlinburg. Jim R Rogers . LeConte. LeConte. This particular Smoky Mountains trail leads hikers to the 6,593-foot summit of Mt. Arch Rock . The mile markers seem to under estimate the distance. Rated 4.5 /5 based on 2 customer reviews Save Review Directions. Loved Grotto falls and the view up Trillium Gap, Rainbow falls was showing off today after the rain. Starting at the Rainbow Falls trailhead off Cherokee Orchard Road, you can create a big loop hike up to Mt LeConte and back down Bullhead to land on Old Sugarlands Trail (0.4 miles back to the parking lot). You’ll also want to make sure you pack plenty of energy fueling snacks. Skip to content. Hikers report that the beautiful Rainbow Falls, lush vegatation, and amazing scenery make the difficult hike well worth it. LeConte (via Boulevard Trail) Description. Really good trail, clearly visible but some of the trail towards about 1 mile to .5 miles out was a pretty rough section of just ice. Set out early for a long strenuous 10.4-mile day hike by hiking past the bluffs, past LeConte Lodge, and onto the Cliff Tops for breathtaking views. Out-and-Back. Then the last mile is the worst and feels like forever because of the amount of elevation you climb in that distance. You can find more information about making reservations on the official LeConte Lodge website. Hiking shoes are also a must! As we hike towards the Anakeesta Ridge, something is startled in a tree right above us on the trail and it sounds big. After driving 0.7 miles veer right onto Cherokee Orchard Road, upon which you'll enter into Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This hike to Mt. Don’t believe the signs, the distances seem to read shorter than actual.Allow eight hours round-trip.. Tips: From the Sugarlands Visitor Center, drive 8.7 miles south along Newfound Gap Road to the Alum Cave Trailhead. LeConte was measured in the 1850s, but it wasn’t until the 1920s, when Paul Adams moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, that activity began to take place on the mountain. The Mt. The beginning of this hike parallels a creek until just past Arch Rock. You may occasionally encounter ice and snow in early Spring and late Fall on this trail. Mt. Took me all day to get to the top and back. The shortest yet most strenuous being the Alumn Cave trail. Very beautiful and peaceful. The Myrtle Point Trail is near the Mount LeConte summit and the LeConte Lodge. This is a great trail for anyone seeking adventure and wanting to get a taste of what hiking in the Smokies is truly all about. Welcome to the official information page for LeConte Lodge, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 2 Thank Kim C . While it may sound intimidating, overall, these ledges do not present any challenges, unless you are afraid of heights. Birthdays and Parties. Glad i had some yaktrax they deffly were helpful. This hike to Mt. Leconte My Happy Place Ornament-Great Smoky Mountains National Park Hiking Ornament-Wilderness Lodge On Mt. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a9f36fb9fa512b1a19704bad981ea80e" );document.getElementById("i5a5a6a15d").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Tennessee Hiking Report is a website that shares about hiking, backpacking, and camping locations in Tennessee. Pack accordingly, as a general rule you will Time for the annual assault on Mt. Sign Up For Email Updates. We took two “meal” breaks on our trip – one at the cave and one at LeConte Lodge. This trail travels through an old-growth forest, and at about 1.3 miles, you’ll reach Grotto Falls. This 13.9 mile round trip trail is another option for hikers hoping to reach Mt. Many hikers have reported seeing the alpacas on the trail and sometimes at the lodge. If you’re planning to hike during winter months, you’ll definitely need microspikes. And you might be tired! Lots of waterfalls along the way. LeConte for an 11+ mile out-and-back hike. Hiking to the summit of Mt. During our recent hike up Mt. After driving 0.7 miles veer right onto Cherokee Orchard Road, upon which you'll enter into Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Hikers should plan to spend anywhere from 6-10 hours on this hike. A very entertaining account! At the top is a campground where you can rent cabins (click here if you’re interested!) The view at the clifftop was definitely worth it and the views on the way up as well. Added by Adam Welch. Once you hit the bluff it’s about halfway and still not too bad up the trail for another mile. Evening view from Mt. The Boulevard Trail is about an 8-mile hike to Mount LeConte. This hike to Mt. Definitley muddy before The falls and icy/snowy after to the top. There are definitely some steep parts once you get past the cave. Le Conte. Although this trail is considered the most strenuous hike to Mount LeConte, its shadier pathways do make it slightly cooler during the summer than the other 4 trails.