About
Length (round trip)11 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyStrenuous
Elevation gain2,763 ft up
Typical time7 hr
TrailheadAlum Cave trailhead, Newfound Gap Road
SurfaceDirt, rock steps, cable handholds on ledges
Best seasonApril to June for wildflowers, mid-October for fall colour. High elevations are cold and icy from November to March.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityThis trail is steep and rocky, and includes stairs and bridges.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views🕳️ Cave or arch🌲 Old growth

Past Arch Rock - a tunnel weathered through the rock with steps cut inside it - then Inspiration Point, then the 80-foot Alum Cave Bluffs at 2.2 miles. Beyond the bluffs the trail traverses narrow ledges with steel cables bolted into the rock for handholds, and climbs to LeConte Lodge and the summit at 6,593 feet.

Tips
The cable ledges ice over badly in winter and the park does not close the trail - people are seriously injured here every year. LeConte Lodge is the only lodging in the park reachable on foot and books a year ahead by lottery. Turning round at Alum Cave Bluffs makes an excellent 4.4-mile day.
Location

Alum Cave trailhead, Newfound Gap Road

Other Hikers
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