Summary:
From Alum Cave Bluffs, climb to the summit of one of the highest mountains in the Smokies for a series of gorgeous views.

From Alum Cave Bluffs, the trail continues through rhododendron and spruce fir forest. After just a few minutes, there are beautiful, open views over the valley, including the ridge of Chimney Tops in the distance.

The views continue as the trail skirts the cliff face (cables added in places, but there is no danger). There is a nice level section, alternating between rock sections and well-graded path, and then the climb begins. As you get higher, the trail gets a little more rugged in places, with some rocks and exposed tree roots.

As you traverse the hillside, you cross a landslide, the lack of trees allowing for a superb view across the valley to the rolling mountain ridges beyond. The dramatic views continue as you skirt the cliff face on the final climb to the summit. Although for a time there is a sheer slope below, the wide path and vegetation to the side of the trail means there is no sense of danger (in any case, a cable has been added).

Most of the climbing is now over. A level walk follows, through many dead trees as well as new growth, to a trail junction. From here, it is only 0.1 mile to the lodge that sits just below LeConte’s summit. There are no views from the lodge; you will need to climb a little further to reach two wonderful viewpoints. (Bear in mind that, as well as the initial climb, it will take at least 30 minutes to walk between the two points, so you need to allow plenty of time at the summit).

As you pass the lodge, look for a sign to the right pointing to Cliff Tops. A short stiff climb leads to this rocky crown and its beautiful view over the mountains.

From Cliff Tops, a trail leads left towards the second summit viewpoint, Myrtle Point. Continue ahead at the Boulevard Trail junction (turning left would take you back down to the lodge), and shortly after pass a wooden shelter on the right. 15 minutes after leaving Cliff Tops you pass the highest point on Mt LeConte at 6,593 ft; the aptly named High Top, completely shrouded by trees, is marked by a rock cairn. Soon you see Myrtle Point, at the end of a short ridge. Just a few minutes later, a spur leads ahead off the Boulevard Trail, signed 0.2 miles to Myrtle Point. It is just a few more minutes along the ridge to a rocky expanse, low-lying shrubs allowing for panoramic views to all sides. Absolutely deserted when we visited, it is a beautiful and tranquil spot.

When you are ready to leave, retrace your steps along the spur to rejoin the Boulevard Trail (if you have arranged a lift, this trail is a possible descent route – from here, it is 7.3 miles to Newfound Gap). It is straight ahead to the lodge (in 0.7 miles), where you pick up the Alum Cave Bluffs trail for the 5 mile descent back to the trailhead.

In summary, the 7 hours needed to complete this hike can be split as follows:
* Trailhead to Alum Cave Bluffs – 1.5 hour
* On to LeConte Lodge – 2 hours
* Summit viewpoints – 1.5 hours
* Descent – 2 hours

Directions: Follow US 441 – Newfound Gap Road – through the Park.

Trailhead: Parking area for Alum Cave Bluffs on Newfound Gap Road, approximately 8 miles south of Sugarlands visitor center at the north entrance and 4 miles north of Newfound Gap.

Length: 11.5 miles / 18.4 km

Trail Type: Out and back

Elevation Change: 2,657 ft / 810 m

Duration: 6 hours

Trail Condition: Well defined and easy to follow.

Features: Rhododendron and spruce fir forest; creek; rock formations and outcrops; expansive views.

Climate: Hot and hazy by mid-summer, with thunderstorms. Changeable conditions in early spring and late fall. Plenty of snow in winter at these high elevations.

Accommodation: Camping in the Park – the nearest sites are Smokemount to the south or Elkmont to the north-west. LeConte Lodge near the summit of Mt LeConte is hike-in only, reservations required. Plenty of motels just north of the Park in Gatlinburg, or south of the Park in Cherokee, North Carolina (both on US 441).

Trail Notes: Trail maps and guides available from Sugarlands visitor center at the north entrance or Oconaluftee visitor center at the south entrance. Water is available near LeConte Lodge (look for a sign after descending from Myrtle Point). Be aware that black bears frequent this area, particularly in summer.