3-Day 2-Night Mount Le Conte Backpacking Itinerary:
Being the 3rd highest peak in the park, it is no surprise that Mount Le Conte offers some incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains. At the top of this Mountain sits the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States, LeConte Lodge. Here a series of cabins stand where hikers can reserve a stay. Reservations are needed in advance here if you can’t get one for your backpacking trip, though, do not worry because there is a shelter located not far from the lodge.
This trip is a loop trail starting and ending in Sugarlands Visitor Center. On this trip, you will get views from Mount LeConte, the Appalachian Trail, and Sugarland Mountain!
Trek Specs:
Type of Route: Loop
Total Mileage: ~35.7 miles
Total Elevation Gain: ~8,022ft
Are Permits Required: Yes
Day 1: Sugarland Visitor Center to Mount Le Conte.
- Via Old Sugarland Train>Rainbow Falls Trail>Boulevard Trail
- Distance: ~11 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~5,112ft
Day 2: Mount Le Conte to Mount Collins Shelter.
- Via Boulevard Trail>Appalachian Trail>Sugarland Mountain Trail
- Distance: ~12.5 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~2,461ft
Day 3: Mount Collins Shelter to Sugarland Visitor Center.
- Via Sugarland Mountain Trail>Husky Gap Trail>Newfound Gap Road
- Distance: ~12.2 miles
- Elevation Gain: ~449ft
***Reminder to always check the park’s website to get up-to-date information on trail closures and the latest backcountry rules and regulations.
