I didn't do this trail this summer, but the Alum Cave trail is one that goes all the way to the top of Mount LeConte, where there is a lodge that you can stay at, though you have to make reservations months in advance. I have never gone all the way to the top, 4.4 miles, so I will talk about the two landmarks along the way that I have experienced, which are a totally doable hike with a family.
1. Arch Rock. This is the first landmark you hit. This rock has a staircase through it...crazy cool and lots of fun. You can turn around here, or head to landmark numero dos...
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From the bottom, about to enter Arch Rock.
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The staircase to get up through Arch Rock.
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2. Alum Cave Bluff. What the trail is named after. This landmark is a little past Arch Rock and is about halfway through the trail. Evidently past this point is where the trail gets really strenuous, which makes sense because up to this point, I was having trouble believing that this trail went all the way to the top of LeConte (it just wasn't super steep or anything). However, to get to this point is not bad...especially for this view...I can't put into words what it looks like, but it is crazy, crazy cool, so I encourage everyone to go check it out.
I really hope to do this trail or one of the longer ones and go all the way to the top of LeConte one day...but until then, this is all I've got for you. Happy hiking, and thanks for reading this week's blogs about my Gatlinburg trip!
