Hike to Mount Le Conte on Trillium Gap Trail

Hike 13 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip from Trillium Gap Trailhead near Gatlinburg.

Bob Carr Photo

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

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Location

Expect crowds and full parking at Trillium Gap Trailhead—consider a shuttle

Take a shuttle to avoid parking stress at Trillium Gap Trailhead.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Trail is steep, rocky, and includes stairs and bridges.