Last updated: July 17, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike to Mount LeConte 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 LeConte, 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 13.0 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.
Trail is often icy in winter months
Length
13.0 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip
Parking (consider a shuttle)
Trillium Gap Trailhead on one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Nearest Restroom
Rainbow Falls Trailhead before entering one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Alternate Hikes
- Hike to Grotto Falls: 2.6 miles (4.2 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Appalachian Trail & Boulevard Trail to Mount LeConte: 16.2 miles (26.1 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Bullhead Trail to Mount LeConte: 13.6 miles (21.9 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Rainbow Falls Trail to Mount LeConte: 13.0 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip
- Hike the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte: 10.0 miles (16.1 km) roundtrip
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.
A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.