How long of a hike is Mt LeConte?
Allow 6-9 hours for the hike. It’s strenuous, but not technically challenging. Our hike took eight hours since there is so much to stop and enjoy along the way. At the top, we took a nice break at LeConte Lodge, the highest guest lodge in eastern America at 6,360 feet elevation.
What is the shortest trail to Mount LeConte?
Alum Cave Trail
Alum Cave Trail Description: Alum Cave is the shortest and most popular trail accessing Mt. LeConte. We recommend arriving at the trailhead early, as parking spaces fill up quickly during the lodge season. The beginning of this hike parallels a creek until just past Arch Rock.
Can you climb Mt LeConte a day?
There are several trails that lead to the Mt LeConte summit, so you can take your pick. No matter which trail you choose, you can think of it as an all-day hike. Plan on making this your one and only Smoky Mountains activity of the day!
Where do you park to hike Mt. LeConte?
The Alum Cave Trail starts at the Alum Cave Bluffs Trailhead parking lot, located right on US-441 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. From Gatlinburg, it is a 13-mile drive (30 minutes). There are several parking lots here. Even so, during the midday, overflow parking spills out on the shoulder lining US-441.
How long does it take to hike 7 miles?
For example, most people hike 2 miles per hour on an average hike. If you are walking a five-mile loop through moderate, you should allocate 2.5 hours for the hike. Likewise, a 7-mile hike will take 3.5 hours, while a 10-mile hike will take 5 hours.
Which trail do the llamas take to Mt. LeConte?
the Trillium Gap Trail
Since 1986, llamas have been taking the Trillium Gap Trail to Mount LeConte Lodge, a 14-mile-long journey.
Is Alum Cave Trail Hard?
About the Alum Cave Bluffs Trail This moderately difficult hike is 4.6 miles round trip or 5.1 miles on to LeConte Lodge. The round-trip to the cave bluffs takes about 3 hours, but you should allow about 4 hours to LeConte Lodge. The Alum Cave trail is the most popular and well-known route to Mount LeConte.
How do you climb Mt. LeConte?
Start at the Newfound Gap parking lot off of Hwy 441, Newfound Gap Road. About 16 miles from Gatlinburg, TN or 18 miles from Cherokee, NC. You will follow the Appalachian Trail for 2.7 miles to the junction where the Boulevard Trail branches left (North). Total distance to LeConte Lodge®: 8.1 miles.