How to Hike Mt LeConte (Alum Cave Trail)

The hike to Mt LeConte on the Alum Cave Trail is considered the crown jewel of hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In this video I'll show you what it's all about.
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00:00 Why It's Great
01:00 To Arch Rock
02:50 To Alum Cave Bluffs
04:45 To Cliff Top
08:20 Cliff Top
10:00 Mount LeConte Summit
10:40 Myrtle Point
11:03 LeConte Lodge
12:18 Parking
12:45 Map Walkthrough
As an avid hiker who frequently explores the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, I recently embarked on a hike up Mt. LeConte via the Alum Cave Trail, a gem among the park's vast offerings. This trail is not only a favorite among Eastern U.S. hikers but also a bucket-list hike due to its beautiful terrain and the rewarding views at the summit.
The hike starts at the Alum Cave Trailhead, which is well-equipped with parking and essential signage. The trail itself, approximately 11 miles round trip, begins by crossing bridges over streams filled with the soothing sounds of flowing water-creating an immediate escape from the busier world outside the park. The path is well-maintained, with steps and bridges that make the initial miles a gentle introduction to what will become a more challenging climb.
Early on, the hike takes you past Arch Rock, a natural arch formed by erosion, which presents the first of the trail's steeper sections. Stone stairs here give a preview of the terrain to come. As the trail ascends, it offers picturesque views, especially from Inspiration Point, which provides expansive vistas of the park's rugged landscape.
One of the highlights along the trail is the Alum Cave Bluff around the halfway mark, an 80-foot tall cliff face with a broad overhang. Historically, saltpeter was mined from the cave for gunpowder during the Civil War, adding a touch of history to the hike's scenic appeal. Past this point, the trail becomes noticeably steeper, and the surrounding vegetation changes as you gain altitude, transitioning into a denser evergreen forest.
The final ascent to the summit is rigorous, with sharp elevation gains and rocky steps, but it's mitigated somewhat by newly added features like handrails and improved staircases that help manage erosion and make the climb more manageable. Reaching the summit offers a breath of relief and accomplishment, along with stunning views that span the iconic Smoky Mountains.
For those aiming to experience all that Mt. LeConte has to offer, the summit isn't the only highlight. A short hike from the main trail leads to Myrtle Point, providing what are arguably some of the best panoramic views of the area, perfect for a longer rest or a picnic before descending.
Given the trail's popularity, it's advisable to start early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Proper preparation is crucial, as the weather can change quickly at higher elevations. Packing essentials like water, snacks, a map, and rain gear can make the difference between a challenging and enjoyable hike and a potentially uncomfortable experience.
For anyone visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Mt. LeConte hike via the Alum Cave Trail offers a comprehensive adventure that combines natural beauty, physical challenge, and a sense of historical context. It's a fulfilling experience that leaves hikers with lasting memories of one of the most picturesque spots on the East Coast.

[@rachescakes]

Great video! I’ve hiked up Bullhead and stayed at the Lodge before but taking my kids for their first visit. This was helpful!

[@user-qz7sz7hg4u]

Great video! So happy to have found your channel. I recently did this hike with my husband and 2 kids last week of March. We hiked via alum cave. Not many people continue on after alum cave so its nice to have the trail to yourself. There were icy and wet stretches for us so the cables were a must. It was very slippery. If you are looking for a challenging hike this is it! Your calves will feel it. Walking through the forested area toward the top was it for me...the trees were frosted and the moss everywhere reminded me of a Disney movie! Just gorgeous!! Cliff tops and myrtle point are breathtaking! Do not miss those views! Also dont forget your Tshirt from the Leconte gift shop...i wasnt leaving without my "I HIKED IT" tshirt!! Best hike in the smoky mountains!

[@zullyrodriguezsiney4003]

I’m going in two weeks!!!! Thanks for the video

[@overwatchxrescue]

Thank you for hosting Stephen from Overwatch x Rescue on this amazing hike! Definitely looks like the two of you had some great times and saw some spectacular views.

[@HopeToProsper]

Hey Hiking Guy, I'm from sunny So Cal, like you, and I appreciate all of the great hiking videos and resources. I hiked Mount Laconte with my niece and nephew a couple years back and it was great. It is purely magical to hike in the Great Smokies.

[@carolinanvediazsanfrancisc4904]

Great video! Thank you! My brother and I plan to hike the trail this coming July so thank you for the tips!!

[@Hikingguy]

Thanks man and have fun, it's a classic

[@notmyrealname6150]

I have stayed at LeConte Lodge 6 times and the Alum Cave Trail is the quickest trail to get there.

[@jonshea3936]

This was a nice, informative overview of the trail system. Thank you for sharing it. We hiked it today, starting at dawn. We got so close to the breathtaking views at the Cliff Tops, but unfortunately we were getting dangerously cold. The wind and cold was pretty brutal up there at about 9:30a on 3/22/24. I left my hiking hoodie and winter hat, as well as good gloves and hand-warmers, in the truck. It's ok though, we'll be back, Lord willing. :-)

[@SouthernLaw]

Great trail! The lodge is a treasure. Different vibe than an AMC hut that’s for sure. Love both.

[@ervinslens]

Such a masterfully executed hike my friend. As always professional work!

[@daves5726]

Just how I remember 😀 Thanks for this video 😃😃 Did this in hike in 2015 on my 50th Birthday trip to the GSM stayed overnight at the Lodge. Amazing hike Amazing trip going to do again at the end of June 2024 putting my name on the wait list for the Lodge.

[@eddie4082]

Chris I can't believe I just missed you. Heading out to do this hike in the morning. Great information as always. Eddie

[@lindseymaurer7255]

This hike is on my list in the spring. Such a helpful planning video. Thank you.

[@UncleJoeHikes]

Great overview! Thanks!

[@nathanway803]

Favorite Vid so far! Cheers!

[@rkatrails]

Looks like a very interesting trail, this is the first time I've heard of it. Thanks for sharing.

[@cyclingjon]

Great video for such a beautiful hike. I hike this trail every summer. I've never seen the creeks with so little water in them. For those wanting to hike during the summer, be sure to get to the trailhead real early (before 7am). The folks who stay at the lodge have to leave their cars at the trailhead over night so parking at the two lots is usually limited.

[@GregPearson-FPI]

@Cris - Thanks for getting Stephen out on the trails. Looks like you guys had a great time. Cool hike! I've added it to my list. Thanks, GP -

[@Hikingguy]

Thanks Greg - was a great time with some great views up top. We lucked out on the weather too. It even smelled like Christmas trees at one point. Couldn't ask for anything better...

[@postal002]

Great video! I’ve hiked Alum Cave Bluff Trail to the lodges 4 times (my wife has done it 3 times). Most recent was September of last year on a rainy day (enjoyable hike nonetheless). Thank you for posting this video and for hitting all the off shoots (I haven’t seen most of them but now I must on the next trek up there). Very informative. Side note: a lot of those steps were not there the first time I hiked it in the early 2000’s.

[@Hikingguy]

First off, big thanks for your support and glad picked up something new from the guide. It's such a great place, hoping to get back for a fall colors hike this year. And same on the steps, think a lot of them are fairly recent. I used to go a few times a year in the 2000s and they weren't there.

[@zacharyread5303]

This is my go to trail for a challenging trail run and i do this exact trail a couple times a year. I'm from East TN so it's good to see something familiar on the channel.

[@suzanne1116]

Beautiful

[@thelonehiker4698]

That looks like a beautiful trail

[@dickspade7045]

Thanks for a great video. Because of my Advanced Maturity I may not be able to actually do the whole hike, going with you is the next best thing, Thanks.

[@waynescottturner]

Nice video! Friends and I stayed overnight at the Sperry Chalet in Glacier this last summer (another hike-in only), and so now we have reservations this summer at LeConte Lodge to do the same, so this was timely. Also, my Glacier trip was my first one with my new Black Diamond Pursuit 15 pack, which I learned about from your channel! Thanks!

[@Hikingguy]

Sperry Chalet is incredible. Years ago I did a day hike and lunch there. Overnight is on my list.

[@eddie4082]

Chris Thanks for the video. Hiked this yesterday and there was 3-5 inches of snow. However the information in the video was extremely helpful. 11.9 miles and over 3000 ft of elevation gain while in snow and ice was intense. I have lived my entire life in Tennessee and frequently vacationed in the Smoky Mountains but never experienced their beauty quite like this. Much appreciated as the info (minus the snow) was invaluable. Eddie

[@Hikingguy]

Yea there's snow up there occasionally, usually it's not lasting long though. Glad you got to hike it and now you have a good adventure story under your belt to boot!

[@eddie4082]

​@@Hikingguy Lots of firsts. 1st over 1000 ft elevation gain 1st snow/mud/ice/snow melt where you are walking a small stream 1st hike after dark There may be a few more firsts but thanks again for the very simple "hey this will help you do this hike" information in this video. Eddie

[@miqui97]

I did it up to Alum Cave. Most scariest hike in the Smokies, for me!

[@sluggotinfantryman]

Huckleberry Knob. My favorite place over there. Skyway from Telico side.

[@jpetersonx127]

Great video! I'm assuming you hiked this in the past month or so. It's always nice to get an approximate date of the hike to get an idea of typically conditions for the season.

[@Hikingguy]

Yup date is on the video

[@asahyonne]

Thanks for the information! Im going in two weeks and I'm pretty nervous about the heights and cliff edges. Are they really as narrow as they look and how long would you say the worst part is?

[@Hikingguy]

It's not bad at all, you'll be fine. Plenty wide all over.

[@Liebish]

Loved the Tour! Do you think taking 60 Highschool kids on this hike a safe idea? 9-12 grade with staff.

[@Hikingguy]

A group of 60 might not be practical. I'd reach out to NPS and see what types of things they'd recommend for larger groups.

[@Liebish]

ok, will try something else. Do you think your charles bunion hike is also not good for a big group?@@Hikingguy

[@Hikingguy]

@@Liebish Not really sure what the policy is for a big groups, but outside of that its a beautiful hike

[@timanderson572]

Thanks for this, where do you park to get to the trailhead?

[@Hikingguy]

link in description

[@nachonacho9682]

I wil visit soon Smoky Mountains. I look at maps and pages but your video is very helpful with hiking informations. Thank you. Can you make hike up and down at 1 day? Or everybody do sleep at shelter at Mt LeConte? From your informations hike up and down must be 16 hours, correct? Thank you.

[@Hikingguy]

Yes can be done in 1 day, check the link in the description for more info including time.

[@nachonacho9682]

@@Hikingguy Thank you.

[@jessica4bama]

Would you recommend ice spikes if hiking it in early March?

[@Hikingguy]

Yes I'd bring them just in case.

[@sluggotinfantryman]

Used to live here. Polk County TN. The funny thing about Gatlinburg is I hadn't been there since 1972. Yea. I will never go back. But Leconte is it. Clingmans Dome is zoo but great. Cherokee National Forest is over run from people trying to get away from Smokey now. Cocaine Bear was hilarious depiction of Georgia Side. 1st since Deliverance. Perfection except last scene. Ain't never going back east. Sweaty. Hot. Ticks. Nope.

[@pahpyaw]

is parking free?

[@Hikingguy]

hikingguy.com/hiking-trails/best-hikes-on-the-east-coast/hike-mount-leconte-via-alum-cave/

[@zenfully13]

Why does the cover photo of this video spell it LaConte? lol