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Alum Cave Trail, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

4.6
#6 of 18 in Trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Hiking Trail · Nature / Park
The quickest route to the Le Conte massif, Alum Cave Trail meanders along a creek, through an old-growth forest of mountain laurel and rhododendron, tracing the edge of a narrow ridge in its final third. This very popular, 4 km (2.5mi) hike passes by many notable landmarks, including Arch Rock and Inspiration Point, a rocky outcrop offering sweeping views of the rugged valley. The narrow tunnel of Arch Rock is considered to be the highlight of this trek. Stop at the LeConte Lodge for a well-deserved respite over a refreshing cup of hot coco before continuing to the summit. Work out when and for how long to visit Alum Cave Trail and other Great Smoky Mountains National Park attractions using our handy Great Smoky Mountains National Park day trip planner.
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Alum Cave Trail reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 5.0
434 reviews
Google
4.4
TripAdvisor
  • By Grover R
    This is a great hike and we did not make the bluff. Our crew was getting hangry so we stopped after reaching Arch Rock. My fear was the clouds on the mountain likely would have distracted the view.....  more »
  • By scbeaches
    we hiked this trail on the way to leconte lodge. we enjoyed the overlooks though the weather wasn't great. there are a number of cables and stairs; a lot of work has been put into maintaining it...  more »
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Google
  • By Joshua Baltajan
    In my opinion, one of the best routes to LeConte!
  • By Ashley
    Easily one of the most (if not THE most) beautiful places I've ever seen! The hike isn't too rough, either. 🏞️♥️ Just be careful if you want to go in closer to the the stream to get pictures—some of the ground gets rather loose and crumbly near the water. I almost fell in. Would've been a memorable story, though…
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