Mount le Conte
Key information: Mount le Conte
- "The" walk in the GSMNP, claimed by some to be the highest point in the USA east of the Mississippi, with predictably wonderful views.
- True wilderness, with huge biodiversity.
Walkopedia rating
- Walkopedia rating78
- Beauty31
- Natural interest15
- Human interest2
- Charisma30
- Negative points0
- Total rating78
Vital Statistics
- Length: Variable/ Up to 2 days
- Maximum Altitude: 1,981m
- Level of Difficulty: Moderate
WALK SUMMARY
The highest point in the USA east of the Mississippi (at 1,981m/6,500ft). Mount le Conte sits at the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains NP.
This is true wilderness, with no road within a day's walk; and with high rainfall, it has huge biodiversity, both in plants (1,500 species of flowers, under fine pines and firs) and a goodly selection of animal life. That said, acid rain from 3 nearby coal power stations is causing problems (and its haze affecting the views).
A delight here is the lodge close to the peak, which makes a walk in and back out over two days both a joy and very practical: with a meal and bunk awaiting you, you can travel light(ish). An introductory thrill for your children?
The whole area is thickly forested, so don't expect much in the way of views until you get high. But those are worth the wait, wooded ridges receding in every direction. Dawn and sunset can be gorgeous.
There are five routes up Mt le Conte. The Alum Cave Trail is the shortest (5 miles), but steepest and most popular. Other routes include the Ranbow Falls Trail (6.5 miles), which stays in the Le Conte Creek valley for most of the way before joining a ridge.
Le Conte Lodge can be booked on 865 429 5704 or www.lecontelodge.com. The season runs from late March to late November. Reservations are by lottery, so make sure you apply in good time.
The GSMNP website has lots of good information -ps.gov/gvsm/index.htm.
This walk is in high(ish), remote(ish) mountains. Come prepared.
Have a look at the dreaded TripAdvisor . You should get good, current views on this walk/area.
Other accounts: share your experiences
Your comments on this walk, your experiences and suggestions, and your photos are very welcome. Where appropriate, you will be credited for your contribution.
Safety and problems: All walks have inherent risks and potential problems, and many of the walks featured on this website involve significant risks, dangers and problems. Problems of any sort can arise on any walk. This website does not purport to identify any (or all) actual or potential risks, dangers and problems that may relate to any particular walk.
Any person who is considering undertaking this walk should do careful research and make their own assessment of the risks, dangers and possible problems involved. They should also go to “Important information” for further important information.
COMMUNITY COMMENTS AND PHOTOS
Name: Elcapitainkev
Posted on: 12/12/2018
To be accurate, I have been on this hike and would love to claim that I have been to the highest peak east of the Mississipi...Mt. Mitchell in the Black Mountains of North Carolina, however, holds that mark. In fact, there are a few higher than LeConte.
Anyone planning an expedition to this place should see further important information about this walk.
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