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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 2 of 3 Submit your own review 
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!
Reviewed by Brian on 7/26/2006 I have hiked this trail twice now. The first trip was in June 2003 and the rhododendrons were in full bloom and the second was on a trip to LeConte Lodge in November of 2006. You will not be disappointed no matter when you go unless you don't like lots of company, but if you hike on past the bluffs you will have better views only see people coming or going to the lodge. A overnight stay at the lodge is highly recommended, reservation required.
Reviewed by AH on 6/2/2006 This was an excellent hike. Consistent climb and beautiful formations and scenery. The ascend though is 2600ft and not 4000ft (this is as per the boards put up by the GSMNP).
Reviewed by Matthew on 8/13/2005 It rained lightly and was overcast most of the 3 hour climb to the top of Mt. Le Conte. However, once on top, instead of being treated to stunning visual panoramas the sky opened up with a fervent intensity. For the next 45 minutes I was assaulted by a symphonic masterpiece of thunder and lightning that roared and reverberated up the mountain through its many valleys. BRAVO!!!
Reviewed by Dan on 8/1/2005 Loved it! Even with showers during the first half, it was worth it. If you don't spend the night on top, plan on using most of the day up and back. The trail is well maintained and the views are wonderful. Good shoes and proper equipment are a must if you go all the way to the top. There are many things to see and photo along the way. A nights stay in the lodge is fun, if you can get reservations. I plan on doing it many more times. 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||