Alum Cave Trail
A stunning trail in the Smokies featuring Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluffs, and a challenging path to Mount LeConte.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Alum Cave Trail
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning trail in the Smokies featuring Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluffs, and a challenging path to Mount LeConte.
"This is a beautiful trail with incredible views, but parking is a challenge!"
🚗 Parking is a challenge!
Arrive VERY early (before 8 AM) or be prepared to walk a mile+ from overflow parking.
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially closer to the bluffs and summit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Arch Rock
Along the Alum Cave Trail
A stunning natural arch formed by wind and water, offering unique photo opportunities.
Alum Cave Bluffs
Midway on the Alum Cave Trail
A massive, concave rock overhang providing shelter and dramatic views, not a traditional cave.
Mount LeConte Summit
End of the Alum Cave Trail
The ultimate reward for a challenging hike, offering panoramic 360-degree views of the Smokies.
Myrtle Point
Past Mount LeConte Lodge
A recommended detour for even more expansive 360-degree vistas, perfect for sunset.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Parking Spot
Trail to Mount LeConte: Know Your Limits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is a challenge!
Arrive VERY early (before 8 AM) or be prepared to walk a mile+ from overflow parking.
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially closer to the bluffs and summit.
💧 Bring plenty of water & snacks
The full hike is strenuous; staying hydrated and fueled is crucial.
☁️ Weather can change quickly
Be prepared for sun, rain, or even ice, especially at higher elevations.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is a challenge!
Arrive VERY early (before 8 AM) or be prepared to walk a mile+ from overflow parking.
🥾 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be steep and rocky, especially closer to the bluffs and summit.
💧 Bring plenty of water & snacks
The full hike is strenuous; staying hydrated and fueled is crucial.
☁️ Weather can change quickly
Be prepared for sun, rain, or even ice, especially at higher elevations.
🚶♀️ Day hike to the Bluffs
A great option for families or those seeking a shorter, rewarding hike. 
📸 Capture Arch Rock
This natural arch is a popular photo spot early in the trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Alum Cave Trail for its stunning geological formations, including Arch Rock and the impressive Alum Cave Bluffs. The challenging but rewarding hike to Mount LeConte offers breathtaking panoramic views. However, parking is a significant issue, often requiring early arrival or a long walk from overflow areas.
"This is a beautiful trail. I went on a cold winter day when there was ice all over portions of the trail that made it a bit perilous. Overall, the hike wasn’t too strenuous and it was a decent length of about 4.5 miles there and back."
Jesse Hoffman
"Pretty easy hike up to the Alum cave. Our 5 year old made it without complaining. Beautiful views"
Vitaliy Holovey
"Awesome trail, well maintained. Besure to wear good hiking shoes and take plenty of water and some snacks. It's gets steeper as you get to the top. But so worth doing your best to get there."
Deborah Heise
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Alum Cave Trailhead is located on Newfound Gap Road (US-441) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's about 8.7 miles north of the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Parking is extremely limited, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Yes, there is a small parking area, but it fills up very quickly, often before 8 AM on busy days. If the lot is full, you may need to park a mile or more away and walk to the trailhead.
Yes, if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes within the park, you need a parking tag. These can be purchased at kiosks outside visitor centers or online.
Currently, there is no public shuttle service directly to the Alum Cave Trailhead. The park encourages carpooling or arriving very early.
From Gatlinburg, take US-441 South for approximately 10 miles. The trailhead will be on your right. From Cherokee, take US-441 North for approximately 27 miles. The trailhead will be on your left.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee. However, you will need a parking tag if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes.
The Alum Cave Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, daylight hours are best for hiking and enjoying the scenery.
No, tickets are not required for Alum Cave Trail. It's a public trail within the national park. Parking tags are required for parking.
Parking tags can be purchased from kiosks located at various visitor centers and popular trailheads within the park, or online through the park's official website.
The trail is generally open, but it can be subject to temporary closures due to weather conditions, maintenance, or wildlife activity. Always check the park's official website for current alerts.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The trail has varying difficulty. The hike to Alum Cave Bluffs (4.6 miles roundtrip) is considered moderate, while the full hike to Mount LeConte (11 miles roundtrip) is strenuous due to significant elevation gain.
Hiking to Alum Cave Bluffs typically takes 2-4 hours roundtrip. The full hike to Mount LeConte can take 6-8 hours or more, depending on your pace and stops. +1
Key sights include Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluffs, and the challenging ascent to Mount LeConte. Many also recommend visiting Myrtle Point for panoramic views.
The hike to Alum Cave Bluffs is often manageable for children, with some parents reporting success with 5-year-olds. The full hike to Mount LeConte is very challenging for kids.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction. Layers are recommended as weather can change, and bring rain gear just in case.
🍽️ 🍎 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Alum Cave Trailhead. You'll find restaurants and cafes in nearby Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Yes, bringing your own food and plenty of water is highly recommended, especially for the longer hike to Mount LeConte. Sack lunches are available for purchase at LeConte Lodge if you reach the summit.
While there are no designated picnic areas on the trail itself, you can find picnic spots in other areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's best to pack your lunch and enjoy it at a scenic overlook or once you reach your destination.
If you hike to Mount LeConte Lodge, they offer sack lunches for purchase, which can be a convenient option for summit hikers.
It is not recommended to drink water directly from streams on the trail without proper filtration or purification. Always carry sufficient water with you.
📸 📸 Photography
Arch Rock offers unique framing, Alum Cave Bluffs provides dramatic overhang shots, and the summit of Mount LeConte delivers breathtaking panoramic views. Myrtle Point is also a prime photography location.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, especially for capturing the landscape. Sunsets from Mount LeConte or Myrtle Point are spectacular.
Drone usage is restricted in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check the official NPS website for current regulations regarding drone operation.
The trail can be steep and uneven, making it challenging to shoot while hiking. Lighting can also be tricky under the dense forest canopy or in the cave bluffs.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes and Arch Rock. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain views from the summit. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions or sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider turning back at the bluffs to avoid overexerting younger hikers. The full trek to Mount LeConte is generally too strenuous for young children. Ensure everyone wears appropriate footwear, as the trail can be rocky and uneven.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own food and water to save money on dining. The trail offers incredible natural beauty and challenging hikes for free, making it a high-value experience. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and potentially easier parking.
🏃♀️ Experienced Hikers & Trail Runners
Many use this trail for training or as part of a larger trek in the Smokies. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents, and consider the weather, which can be unpredictable at higher elevations. The summit views are a well-earned reward for the effort.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Alum Cave Bluffs
+2The ascent to the bluffs involves a steady climb, with some steeper sections and rocky terrain. The sound of Alum Cave Creek accompanies much of the hike, adding to the serene atmosphere. The bluffs offer a fantastic spot for a break, a picnic, and to simply marvel at the natural architecture. It's a popular turnaround point for day hikers who want a significant experience without committing to the full trek to Mount LeConte.
+1Conquering Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail
Reaching the summit of Mount LeConte offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Many hikers recommend continuing the extra mile past LeConte Lodge to Myrtle Point for even more expansive 360-degree vistas, especially for sunset. The descent can be quicker but still requires careful footing. Proper preparation, including ample water, snacks, and appropriate gear, is essential for this challenging but incredibly rewarding trek.
+1Navigating Parking and Trailhead Logistics
To mitigate this, arriving before sunrise is often advised. Carpooling or visiting on a weekday can also improve your chances. Remember that a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked in the park for more than 15 minutes. Planning your arrival time and being prepared for potential extra walking are key to a smooth start to your Alum Cave Trail adventure.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit