It has been a couple of weeks since our latest Humdinger Hike, but I wanted to weigh in with thoughts on Mt. Leconte. Our most recent hike was to the top of this well known mountain in the Smokies by way of the Alum Cave trail, which is by the way one of my favorite hikes in the park. Alum Cave trail has some of the most spectacular rock formations and views in the park, but it is also steep and I would even consider certain sections of the trail to be dangerous. The first time I hiked this trail was in the winter and patches of ice made me cling close to the cliff walls for fear of plummeting to my death off the side of the mountain.
There are four other trails that lead to the top of the mountain, two of which we have already hiked as a part of the Humdinger Project. The other four trails are Rainbow Falls, Bull Head, The Boulevard and Trillium Gap. I have never been on the Boulevard Trail, but Trillium Gap is one that I am looking forward to hiking again. Trillium Gap is the only trail in the park where one can walk behind a waterfall at Grotto Falls and it is not unusual to encounter llamas coming up or down the trail carrying supplies to Leconte Lodge.
As you can see from our pictures, the views are great and there is ample opportunity to take in some relaxation between the work of hiking up some steep inclines.
Leconte Lodge is an interesting place. It sits atop the third highest mountain in the Smokies at 6593 feet. It is one of the highest places to stay overnight in the Eastern US. I have stayed at the Lodge twice and for those who can get a reservation, I highly recommend it. The benefits of staying at the lodge are that one gets two days of hiking in beautiful country, a nice beef stroganoff dinner and breakfast the next morning, a bed to sleep in and a great place to be with friends and make new ones.
We are always looking for new friends who like to hike. If you would like to join us for a visit to the Smokies, please let us know. We would be happy to have you join us for a walk in the woods!
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