Smoky Mountain National Park Leconte Lodge is a one-of-a-kind backcountry accommodation located at an elevation of approximately 6,400 feet on Mount LeConte, the third-highest peak in the park. This rustic lodge offers visitors a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains while enjoying the comforts of a cozy cabin and hearty, family-style meals.
Reservations and Booking
Advance reservations are required to stay at the Leconte Lodge, and a reservation lottery is held in the fall for the upcoming season. The lodge is generally open from mid-March to mid-November, and interested visitors can contact the lodge directly to make a reservation.
| Reservation Details | |
|---|---|
| Availability | Mid-March to mid-November |
| Booking Process | Advance reservations required, reservation lottery held in the fall |
| Contact Information | Phone: 865-429-5704 Website: www.lecontelodge.com |
Accommodations and Amenities
The Leconte Lodge offers a unique backcountry experience with its seven log cabins and three lodges, each with individual bedrooms and a communal dining room. Guests can enjoy the rustic charm of the cabins, complete with propane heaters, kerosene lanterns, and Hudson Bay wool blankets.
While the lodge does not have showers, it does offer flush toilets in an adjacent privy building. Visitors can also purchase water and pack lunches for day hikes from the on-site camp store, which also sells merchandise and snacks.
Accommodations and Dining
- 7 log cabins and 3 lodges with individual bedrooms and a communal dining room
- Family-style meals served, including hearty options like beef and gravy, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs
- Propane heaters in cabins, kerosene lanterns, and Hudson Bay wool blankets
- Flush toilets in an adjacent privy building, no showers available
- Camp store with merchandise, snacks, water, and pack lunches for day hikers
Hiking Trails
One of the main draws of the Leconte Lodge is its proximity to several hiking trails that lead to the summit of Mount LeConte. Visitors can choose from five different trails, ranging in length from 5 to 9.1 miles one-way, each offering its own unique challenges and scenic views.
| Hiking Trail | Distance (one-way) | Elevation Gain |
|---|---|---|
| Alum Cave Trail | 5 miles | 3,000 feet |
| Boulevard Trail via the Appalachian Trail | Varies | Varies |
| Bullhead Trail | Varies | Varies |
| Rainbow Falls Trail | Varies | Varies |
| Trillium Gap Trail | 6.7 miles | Varies |
History and Unique Features
The Leconte Lodge has a rich history, having been built in 1926 by Jack Huff. The lodge has been operated by several families over the years, including the Stokely family since 1989. The lodge is known for its rustic charm, the use of llamas to deliver supplies, and the stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, particularly from the Myrtle Point, where the lodge’s builder, Jack Huff, married his wife Pauline.
Historical Highlights
- Established in 1926 by Jack Huff
- Operated by several families over the years, including the Stokely family since 1989
- Known for its rustic charm, llama supply train, and stunning views of the Smoky Mountains
Unique Features
- Llamas used to deliver supplies to the lodge, minimizing the impact on the landscape
- Myrtle Point, a special spot where the lodge’s builder, Jack Huff, married his wife Pauline, offers unique sunrise views
Conclusion
The Smoky Mountain National Park Leconte Lodge is a truly unique and unforgettable experience for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains. With its rustic accommodations, hearty meals, and stunning hiking trails, the lodge offers a chance to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Smokies while enjoying the comforts of a cozy backcountry retreat.
References
- TripAdvisor. (2024). LeConte Lodge. Retrieved from https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g143031-d260218-Reviews-LeConte_Lodge-Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park_Tennessee.html
- U.S. National Park Service. (2024). LeConte Lodge. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/places/leconte-lodge.htm
- My Smoky Mountain Park. (2023). LeConte Lodge inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Retrieved from https://www.mysmokymountainpark.com/where-to-stay-camp-eat/hotels-and-cabins/leconte-lodge/.