Some Of The Best Views In Tennessee Can Be Enjoyed From High Atop Mount Le Conte
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Mount Le Conte is known as the highest point in the state of Tennessee. It’s where locals and tourists alike come to take in the natural beauty of the Volunteer State, and where mountaintop seekers find their need for vast natural landscapes sated. If you haven’t been to Mount Le Conte, it’s a must-visit. A true natural wonder, it’s one of the best places to visit in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Mount LeConte is accessible by way of a 12.5 mile out and back hiking route located near the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The mountain itself rises 6,593 feet high and is the third highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The highest is Clingmans Dome, and the second is Mount Guyot. Still, Mount LeConte remains the highest elevation of any peak that is entirely in Tennessee. Each of the others is shared with North Carolina on a technicality.
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The hike to Mount LeConte itself is rated as difficult, but it's lined with lush plant life, and as you climb in elevation you'll get sneak peeks of the view to come. At the trail's mid-point, the LeConte Lodge is perfect for a quick beer before you head back down the mountain. It's the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States.
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Locals rave about the challenging topography of the hike but recommend that you bring plenty of water and snacks. It takes roughly four to five hours to hike the trail in its entirety.
Here you can see the impressive Mount Le Conte herself, as viewed from the Smoky Mountains Chimney Tops. With a shot like this, there's no surprise the prominent peak is one of the highest in the Appalachian Range.
Keep your eyes peeled for waterfalls and waterways as you meander up the mountainside. You'll gain roughly 3,261 feet in elevation as you hike, run, or backpack to the peak.
The trail is accessible all year long, though we'd recommend that only advanced hikers traverse the trail in the winter season. If you have any tips and tricks about your experience up the mountain, let us know in the comments below!
You can learn more about making your way to Mount LeConte right here.
If you’re looking for an easier hike, head on out to Julias Falls!
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Mount Leconte, Mt. Leconte, Tennessee 37738, USA