Check out the water features on the hike up until the trail begins getting steeper at Alum Cave Bluff
ENVIRONMENT SPECIFIC ADVENTURE CONSULTANTS (ESAC)
NEWS
Alum Cave Bluffs Trail Hike
ESAC did a little scouting trip of America’s Favorite Hiking Trail…Alum Cave Bluffs Trail located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Wow!!! What a hike!!! The trailhead is located about 4 miles west of Newfound Gap. In spite of the large parking capacity for vehicles at the trailhead, the parking lot is crowded. You will ALWAYS see people on this trail during daylight hours. That’s probably one of the nicest things about being on this trail. You will see and possibly converse with the other hikers along the trail. The highlights of this hike is Alum Cave Creek which parallels the trail up past Arch Rock and Alum Cave, both also popular highlights of this unique hike. The arduous climbing begins at the approach to Alum Cave and continues up toward the top of Mount LeConte. There are several wonderful vistas en route up toward the top. Because the hike is only 5 miles to the top, taking numerous breaks at the abundance of viewpoints is encouraged.
Check out the water features on the hike up until the trail begins getting steeper at Alum Cave Bluff
Near the top of Mt. LeConte there lies Mt. LeConte Lodge where if you plan your hike well in advance, you can stay at the lodge. To find out more about Mt. LeConte Lodge, call 423-429-5704 or visit their website at www.leconte-lodge.com for reservations. If you are roughing it, LeConte Shelter is about 2 tenths of a mile past the lodge. Be sure to get a backcountry permit from the visitor centers at either entrance to the park. The most talked about sights to experience while on Mt. LeConte is the sunset at CliffTops and Sunrise at Myrtle Point. Whether you hike up for an overnighter at the Lodge or at the shelter, be sure to carry personal equipment you will need to survive any changes in weather that can happen in the mountains. Minimum equipment should include waterproof/windproof jacket, a warm top, change of socks, water, trail food, flashlight or headlamp, first aid items and a camera for all the pictures you’ll be taking.
Sunset at Cliff Top Sunrise at Myrtle Point