|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
        
 Reporter |
Summary: This is the most traveled trail to Mt. Le Conte but on this winter's day provided solitude on the snow capped peak. From the trailhead you will follow the Alum Cave Creek as it winds to the Arch Rock. Go over the log bridge and take the stairs in this natural arch. This is just one of many dramatic formations along this trail. The Alum Cave Bluffs is a popular destination of "tourist" who usually turn back but you will want to continue on the trail at the sign marked 2.8 miles to Mt. Le Conte. The last 2 miles is rocky and usually wet but with the assistance of cables you will do fine. You will see the lodge once you reach the top but you will want to continue past the shelter to High Top to bag this SB6K. Look for the side trail to Cliff Top, 3/10-mile trail for great views including a sunset if you are staying at the lodge or at the shelter. This is the shortest trail to Le Conte but ascends almost 4000'. Trailhead: I-40 Exit 407 follow Hwy 66 South 8 miles to 441 South to Gatlinburg; 441 South on Newfound Gap Road about 8.6 miles past the Sugarland Visitors Center parking is on the left side of the road with sign "Alum Cave Bluffs" (Lat:35.62972 Lon:-83.45143) Trail Guides for Mt Le Conte/Alum Cave Trail: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: GSMNP Headquarters 865-436-0120 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted 74 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by KB on 6/25/2008 This is one of the best ways to get to Mt. Leconte. There are a lot of different sites. Also, it is probably one of the easier ways. I look forward to hiking this again someday.
Reviewed by Craig on 1/28/2008 My wife and I hiked this one on our honeymoon several years back. The only hike I have taken better is into the Grand Canyon. Once you get to Alum Cave, there are scenic views galore all along the trail. It keeps you going when you feel like turning back, but take care because of steep dropoffs. The lodge is a pretty place and I would love to spend the night there sometime. You must check out the view from Cliff Top! Spectacular in every sense of the word.
Reviewed by DaleH on 11/16/2007 By far the prettiest trail to Mount LeConte Lodge. A great workout for the day hiker, but an overnight stay is the best way to enjoy the many views from Myrtle Point, Cliff Tops and a host of overlooks along the way. Allow ample time to stop and really take in the sights. You will not regret it.
Reviewed by suesie on 5/7/2007 this is one of the most rewarding hikes as far as variations on terrane and scenic fews. We've done it about 10 times and always love it. Definitly one to do. You don't have to go all the way up. Any part of it is worth the effort. 
Reviewed by JONATHAN on 1/11/2007 HIKED TRAIL 12/12/06. SAW 6 PEOPLE THE WHOLE WAY. REALLY ENJOYED HIKE. ALUM CAVE BLUFF LOOKS LIKE SOMETHING FROM OUT WEST. SOME ICY PLACES AND ABOUT 4" OF SNOW AT THE LODGE. ATE LUNCH THERE AND STARTED BACK ABOUT 3:30. SUNSET ON THE WAY BACK WAS BEAUTIFUL!!
Reviewed by Stansberry on 9/7/2006 Alum Cave Trail is the ultimate dayhike. Arch Rock is at 1.4 miles, the bluffs are roughly halfway, and the trail offers multiple views of the central Smokies as the trail rounds Peregrine Peak en route to Le Conte's south slope. From the trail terminal at LeConte Lodge, it's a short hike to all four of Le Conte's four summits. Cliff Top and Myrtle Point offer spectacular views. Be sure to carry a rock from the trailhead to add to the pile at High Top (the goal being to eventually make the mountain the highest in Tennessee). The Boulevard Trail, appx. 0.1 mile past the lodge, will take you to High Top and Myrtle Point. The summits are very gnat-infested during the summer.
Reviewed by JD on 8/18/2006 The most beautiful scenery I've seen on any hike thus far.
Reviewed by DC on 7/31/2006 This was my second trip up and it was just as exciting as the first. This is a great trail for a short, day or overnight hike. The trail is well maintained and offers many places to stop and take photos or just sit and relax. There are a number of rocky, narrow places that get slippery when wet but, hand cables are provided. The night views from the top were spectacular! The folks at the lodge are always helpful and the Ranger presentation was very informative. It is a great experience! Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Tennessee Hiking, Tennessee Trails, Tennessee Hikes, Sevier County Hiking, Sevier County Trails, Sevier County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||