Hike to Mount Le Conte on Trillium Gap Trail

Overview Expect extreme crowding and limited parking—consider a shuttle and alternate hikes listed below One of five routes to Mount Le Conte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Trillium Gap Trail rewards hikers with mountain views, diverse forest, and a waterfall. The 25-foot (7.6-m) tall Grotto Falls greets visitors approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 m) into the journey before the trail steadily ascends. Spring wildflowers also draw many visitors to this trail. The roundtrip distance is 13 miles (20.9 km) if hikers go out and back on Trillium Gap Trail. Consult a map to combine with other trails and create a loop (mileages will vary). At nearly 3 miles (4.8 km), turn right at the junction with Brushy Mountain Trail to continue to Mount LeConte. Near the summit, the best views are at Cliff Top and Myrtle Point, both marked with signs. In cold weather, prepare for ice on the trail and potential falling icicles. Microspikes (chains or small spikes to slip on shoes for better traction) recommended in winter. Length 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip Parking & Trailhead Please consider a shuttle or park at Trillium Gap Trailhead on one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Don't forget your parking tag. Nearest Restroom Rainbow Falls Trailhead before entering one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail Alternate Hikes Grotto Falls: 2.6 miles (4.2 km) roundtrip Appalachian Trail & Boulevard Trail to Mount Le Conte: 16.2 miles (26.1 km) roundtrip Bullhead Trail to Mount Le Conte: 13.6 miles (21.9 km) roundtrip Rainbow Falls Trail to Mount Le Conte: 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip Alum Cave Trail to Mount Le Conte: 10 miles (16.1 km) roundtrip