TRAILS & HIKERS – FAQs
You can find directions and additional information about the trails on our blog found here: http://www.highonleconte.com/trail-guide.html
Are pets allowed?
Unfortunately, the National Park does not permit pets on the backcountry trails; therefore, they are not permitted on the trails or at the Lodge.
Which trail is the shortest?
Alum Cave Trail is the shortest and most popular hike at 5 miles; however, it is also the steepest. A hiker in good condition can make this hike in roughly 4 hours.
Which trail is the longest?
The Boulevard / Appalachian Trail is the longest hike to Mt. LeConte at 8.1 miles. Starting at an elevation of 5,048, you will be exposed to high elevation elements the entire way. If you choose to approach camp from this direction, get an early start and please come prepared! It is a beautiful hike as few trails can rival the beauty of the scenery found along The Boulevard trail.
What is the easiest trail?
Some people feel that the Trillium Gap Trail (6.7 miles) is the easiest trail to the lodge as this is the trail that the llamas use to bring supplies up three times a week, so it is not as steep as the other trails. The Alum Cave Trail is the shortest hike to the lodge.
Can children make the hike?
Yes, but each child’s ability and motivation will vary, so hike at your own risk.
Which is the best trail for children?
Most children do fine on all trails depending on experience and stamina. The most popular trails for children are Alum Cave Trail and Trillium Gap Trail from the Grotto Falls Trailhead.
Are there open ledges?
Yes, Alum Cave Trail and Boulevard Trail have some open ledge areas that may bother some hikers. They are relatively safe with cables bolted to the mountainside, but in adverse hiking conditions (snow, ice, and/or rain) caution should be used. Parents should also closely supervise their children in these areas.
What should we bring besides the items that are advised (items all hikers should pack)?
It is highly recommended that guests choose sturdy shoes that are already broken in. We also recommend a camera for capturing the breathtaking views of the Smokies and making memories. Traction devices may also be a good idea during the colder months when snow/ice is prevalent. In addition to these items, essential hiking gear may also include the following: map/compass/GPS, first aid kit, sunscreen/sun protection, rain gear (a must), extra food/snacks, extra water, and an extra pair of clothes/socks in case of getting wet. Also remember to wear layered, lightweight clothing to give yourself flexibility to add or subtract as temperatures fluctuate. Keep in mind that nature shows no mercy for those unprepared for her whimsical changes in weather. Summer nights can dip to forty-degree readings while in spring and fall, nights can drop to the teens with snow. A light backpack should be adequate for your necessities, since everything but personal articles are provided at the lodge. Remember to include a snack for the trail and a canteen of water (drinking from streams is discouraged for health reasons)
What is the trail with the best vistas?
Most consider Alum Cave the most scenic, but Rainbow Falls, Bullhead and Boulevard also offer some great vistas. Trillium Gap Trail is primarily a forested hike.
May we order meals if we are not overnight guests?
A sack lunch is available for Day Hikers and shelter guests. The cost for a sack lunch is $13.00 (See Day Hiker Services tab for description of lunch menus). The breakfast and evening meals are only provided for overnight guests.
What should we do if we see a bear?
If you see a bear remain watchful. Do not approach it. If your presence causes the bear to change its behavior (stops feeding, changes its travel direction, watches you, etc) you’re too close. Being too close may promote aggressive behavior from the bear such as running toward you, making loud noises, or swatting the ground. The bear is demanding more space. Don’t run, but slowly back away, watching the bear. Try to increase the distance between you and the bear. The bear will probably do the same. If a bear persistently follows or approaches you, without vocalizing or paw swatting, try changing your direction. If the bear continues to follow you, stand your ground. If the bear gets closer, talk loudly or shout at it. Act aggressively and try to intimidate the bear. Act together as a group if you have companions. Make yourselves look as large as possible (for example, move to higher ground). Throw non-food objects such as rocks at the bear. Use a deterrent such as a stout stick. Don’t run and don’t turn away from the bear. Don’t leave food for the bear: this encourages further problems. For more information on this and other park related topics, please visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s website.
What time of year can we see flowers along the trails?
Below is a list of trails which lead to LeConte Lodge and the flowers that can be found on each:
- Alum Cave Trail: In June, you can find some of the park’s best Catawba Rhododendron. Myrtle and Mountain Laurel bloom in late spring, and exclusive patches of Grass of Parnassus and Gentian bloom in late summer.
- The Boulevard: If you visit this beautiful stretch of trail in the spring, you may be fortunate enough to see over a hundred Painted Trillium in bloom, with intermittent patches of Spring Beauties and Trout Lilies.
- Rainbow Falls Trail: During the springtime, you can find an abundance of vibrant wildflowers.
- Trillium Gap Trail: Along with small creek crossings, this trail is home to an impressive stand of Spring Beauties and Trout Lilies.
- Bull Head Trail: Dogwood, Silverbell, and Magnolia trees fill the canopy with white blooms in spring. In addition to the beautiful tree blooms, Spring Beauties and Trout Lilies dominate, and Turks Cap Lilies proliferate in the summer.
You can also find more information about wildflowers, flowering shrubs and fall colors in the “Trail Guide” section on our blog site: http://www.highonleconte.com/trail-guide.html