Alum Cave Trail to Mt LeConte - GSMNP

Difficulty:Strenuous due to distance, elevation gain & terrain

Distance: 11 miles

Hike style: out and back

Elevation Gain ≈ 2800’

Max elevation: 6,593’
Details:
This hike is located on Newfoundland Gap road between Chimney Tops and Newfound Gap.

This is possibly the most popular hike in the park for good reason - there are multiple features and amazing views along the trail, not to mention LeConte Lodge at the summit.

The trail begins by following Alum Cave creek on a nice easy grade for the first couple of miles. The first feature you reach is Arch Rock at mile 1.4. This is a carved rock staircase climbing through a rock opening.

The terrain steepens dramatically before the next feature - Inspiration Point at around mile 2. This area provides great views of the valley and a ridge named Peregrine Peak, along with “the eye of the needle”. You may see some peregrine falcons flying by if you are lucky.

Continue to mile 2.5 to reach Alum Cave Bluff. This is a giant rock face overhang stretching about 100 yards wide and 80 feet tall.

From the bluff, the trail becomes rockier and more exposed. Just past the bluff you will get views of chimney tops and the valley below. At around mile 3 you will catch a sneak leak of the LeConte Ridge - where you will end up shortly. Mile 2.5 to 4.5 will be steep, rocky, slick, and tedious. Take breaks and push through, it is worth it.

You will reach a switch back with steep stairs around mile 4.5 - the next mile will be filled with amazing open views, as well as a transition to the lovely world of the spruce/fir forest once you reach 6,000’ elevation.

At the junction, turn right onto Boulevard Trail to reach LeConte Lodge in about a quarter mile. After checking out the lodge, be sure to take the quarter mile spur trail up to cliff tops for panoramic views of the Smokies - definitely one of the best views in the park.

Best time to hike: late spring - early fall. This trail is often hazardous from late fall - early spring due to icy conditions on exposed rock. With that being said, winter is my favorite time to hike this trail, but traction devices should be worn (or at least in your pack).

This trail is extremely popular and has limited parking. My advice is to be at the trailhead at sunrise, especially during peak season (summer and fall).