LeConte Lodge via Alum Cave Trail(edit)

based on 418 tracks & routes | |

MODERATE

#106 hike out of 614 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park |

MODERATE

4.9 mi

Distance

2 hrs 4 min

Time

2,507 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a moderate one way trail to LeConte Lodge in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Even though the trail is moderate, the climb to LeConte is long and steady + has some steep grades and exposed sections creating minor risk to hikers. Be prepared to experience a highly crowded trail up to Alum Cave...if you came for solitude this is not the hike for you.

This trail goes by Alum Cave Nature Trail, Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluff, Alum Cave, Cliff Top, and LeConte Lodge.

Getting Started

TH is off Newfound Gap road about 11.5 miles south from Gatlinburg. Parking is fairly limited - DO NOT park on roadway as this trailhead is just off US Highway 441.

Taking Children

This is a tough hike for children 10 and under. The upper portion of the trail is very rocky, and there are a few sections that have steep drop offs. Children need to be closely monitored.

Sights to See

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

heritagehomesteaders 4 years, 1 month ago

A little chilly on the way up but very nice and plenty of sun once at the lodge.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

tommchugh99 4 years, 3 months ago

Awesome hike.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

kaitlanlawrence 4 years, 5 months ago

There was fog at the summit but still a beautiful and challenging peak.

★ ★ ★ ★

garymacek 5 years, 3 months ago

Absolutely wonderful hike. Plan A was to hike to Alum Bluffs and see if we wanted to go further. Yes, these two Type A's were fine and wanted to go to the end. We headed up LeConte - all the way to the huge cairn at the actual top of LeConte at 'High Top'. What's not to like about a trail that takes you over several split log bridges, an arch with steps carved into it that curl up through it, Alum Bluffs for a nice break and view out over the mountain side, then on to narrow rock ledges with cable hand rails, a beautiful forest to hike through, lots of wooden steps and other steps chiseled into the rock? I will admit that I liked the last 1/2 mile or so that was relatively flat and then the restroom stop at LeConte Lodge. Then on to High Top and then over to Cliff Top for the view and back down. 12+ miles altogether and 2700+' in altitude gain. Start early to get a parking spot and to beat the crowds. We did it on a week day in August and started up at 8:15. We still had some crowds but not too many. If you can plan enough in advance, stay overnight at LeConte Lodge. You have to make your reservations well in advance though. But, don't miss this hike.These two 73-yr olds made it and loved it.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

mrn3ff 5 years, 5 months ago

The hike was equally as beautiful as it was challenging. Get to the trailhead as early as possible as parking is limited and the trail is popular.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Zach 5 years, 5 months ago

Good hike with great views once above the caves!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Juliefrog68 5 years, 9 months ago

Best hike ever! A little ice on the trail in spots. Glad we had micro spikes. Lots of friendly hikers on the trail. The views are well worth the climb!

★ ★ ★ ★ ★