Where do I start the Alum Cave Trail?
The hike to Alum Cave in the Great Smoky Mountains begins from the Alum Cave Trailhead on Newfound Gap Road. From the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, drive 8.7 miles south along Newfound Gap Road to reach the trailhead. The parking lot will be on your left.
How long does it take to hike to Alum Cave Bluffs?
About the Alum Cave Bluffs Trail This moderately difficult hike is 4.6 miles round trip or 5.1 miles on to LeConte Lodge. The round-trip to the cave bluffs takes about 3 hours, but you should allow about 4 hours to LeConte Lodge.
How hard is Alum Cave Trail?
Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is a 10.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking and backpacking and is best used from April until November.
What time does the Alum Cave Trail start?
Sunrise is a good time to go, especially on weekends and holidays. We live 90 minutes from Alum Cave so getting the kiddos up at 430 am and in the car by 5 am to be at the trailhead by 630am on our last trip here was not a popular decision.
Are there bathrooms on Alum Cave Trail?
There is a bathroom at the Alum Cave trailhead.
How long does it take to hike to Mt LeConte via Alum Cave Trail?
6-9 hours
Allow 6-9 hours for the hike. It’s strenuous, but not technically challenging. Our hike took eight hours since there is so much to stop and enjoy along the way. At the top, we took a nice break at LeConte Lodge, the highest guest lodge in eastern America at 6,360 feet elevation.
Is Alum Cave Trail scary?
Location. Alum Cave Trail is located directly off of Newfound Gap Road, about 10 miles outside of Gatlinburg TN, and about a mile from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Frankly, with all the traffic along Newfound Gap Road, walking up it is a bit dangerous, so be careful.
Is Alum Cave really a cave?
The name for the Alum Cave Trail comes from one of its natural landmarks, the Alum Cave Bluff. This unique landmark is actually not a cave, but rather a massive concave overhang that towers nearly 80 feet high! There is also some fascinating history about the Alum Cave Bluff!
Can I carry a gun in Smoky Mountain National Park?
If you are in a National Park like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or a National Forest like the Cherokee National Forest, you are allowed to carry a concealed weapon so long as you’ve never been convicted of a felony and have a proper permit.
What is the easiest trail to Mt LeConte?
Alum Cave
Alum Cave is the shortest and most popular trail accessing Mt. LeConte. We recommend arriving at the trailhead early, as parking spaces fill up quickly during the lodge season. The beginning of this hike parallels a creek until just past Arch Rock.
How do I find the Alum Cave Trail?
You will find the Alum Cave Trail by traveling just 12 miles south of Gatlinburg, Tennessee along Newfound Gap Road/US Hwy 441. There are two parking lots at the trailhead to choose from, though it is not uncommon to see cars parked on the side of the road as the parking lots become full.
Is the Alum Cave Trail the longest trail in the Smoky Mountains?
It isn’t necessarily that the trail is the longest or the most challenging; but rather that it is unrivaled in its blend of natural geological markers, scenic views and sheer beauty. If you only hike one trail in the Great Smokies, make it the Alum Cave Trail.
How long is the more Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte?
More Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is a 10.9 mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking and backpacking and is best used from April until November. Length 10.9 miElevation gain 2,896 ftRoute type Out & back
Are there black bears on the Alum Cave Trail?
Black bears are common along the Alum Cave Trail, specifically in the area between the trailhead and Arch Rock. Most will avoid human interaction, but be sure to follow bear safety protocols should you encounter one of these majestic beasts.
