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 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 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by John on 10/18/2009 Hiked this trail on 10-13-09. Perfect conditions. The scenery was absolutely beautiful. This was my first time doing a real day hike in the GSMNP. The trip is around 10 miles round trip and the elevation gain from trail head to top is around 2700 feet. From the trail head to the Alum Cave Bluffs is not that bad but from the bluffs to the top is strenuous, but the reward is worth it. Use the cables when provided, they will help. Make sure you have batteries in your camera. This trail popular for a reason. Hike it now! 
Reviewed by Cody on 7/21/2009 This trail is one of the few where you can truly experience all the smoky mountains have to offer. The first leg of the trip up to alum cave goes by fairly fast, but it does get more difficult as you go forward. We started this trail last May in about 60 degree weather, and when we got to the lodge everything was covered in snow, we pushed the extra quarter mile to the peak and was over whelmed with all the ice and snow that was still found. Going back in a few weeks to redo this venture via the boulavard trail up, rainbow falls down. Highly reccomend making the trip up! But be prepared to keep pushing forward!
Reviewed by Bryan on 2/26/2009 Fantastic and relatively easy walk, given the distance and ascent. A trip well within the capability of many who would rate it slightly beyond their stamina. Any tiredness will be lost whilst admiring the many fine views along the way.I am sure the tree cover will be welcome in summertime, as well as a drink from some natural springs. For those unsure, the walk above Alum Bluff is, if anything easier than below. My walk was in February, a crystal clear day with light soft snow cover on most of the track, hiding the bit of ice I fell on, injuring my hand and making this review slow to write. However any minor pain was lost in the splendour. I would highly recommend this great wee walk.
Reviewed by Cherie on 2/4/2009 Found this trail to be wonderful for reaching Mt. LeConte and the only way I would hike to LeConte again. The trail starts out easy and gradually climbs along a narrow pathway just before you reach Alum Bluff Cave. There can be ice on the path along this narrow part that is dangerous in the winter. However, there are secured cables that you can hang onto that help get you past this point. Well worth the hike and effort with many breath taking views. Beyond Alum Cave is the trail to the top of LeConte where the views are forever ending and the best. There is a lodge/cabins on the top available by reservation only.
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. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||