The Alum Cave Trail In East Tennessee Is The Perfect Winter Hike For Stunning Mountain Views
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Meghan Kraft
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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is shared by Tennessee and North Carolina, and it remains the most-visited national park in the United States. Conveniently located in the midst of the American southeast and studded with incredible hiking trails, it’s a true dream to experience. If you’re looking for great views and a bit of a challenge, then we’d highly recommend making your way out to the Alum Cave Trail. It’s a difficult trail, but wow. The views are UNREAL.
Alum Cave Trail is a 10.6-mile out-and-back route that takes hikers through the stunning wilderness of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trailhead is located near Gatlinburg, and the trek will take you all the way out to Mount LeConte.
These views come at a price, of course. The trail is rated as difficult and features a 2,919-foot elevation gain. Although the trail is most easily used from April until November, it is open throughout the year.
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Can you imagine making your way along this icy trail? You'll have to pay attention to where you're stepping, but the experience is truly unreal. Plus, you're bound to have the trail to yourself!
Dogs are not permitted on the trail, but you can bring as many friends as you can muster. The winter season offers icy, frosted views of the mountains, and come the spring you'll get to wander along a trail studded with wildflower blooms.
Aren't those craggy mountains gorgeous? If you want to really go all the way, you can try to reserve one of the primitive cabins found at the LeConte Lodge. It's the only formal lodging available in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and yes, it's truly rustic!
Alum Cave is one of the most photographed spots along the trail. The Alum Cave Trail is one of the most rewarding trails in the state, with cave views and waterfront meanderings, and expansive bluff views along the way.
Will you be joining in the wintry fun? The trek may be hard, but the views are well worth the effort.
You can learn more about Alum Cave Trail with a visit here and here. Happy adventuring!
Continue to explore the great state of Tennessee with a visit to Big Hill Pond State Park!
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Alum Cave Trail, Tennessee 37738, USA