100th Anniversary Mt. LeConte Lodge Trip

Details on the LeConte Lodge nights are firm. Other details will be added, as they are confirmed. Those signing up are welcome to participate in as much or little of the extra events as they like. The past 2 years, we hiked out to several different waterfalls, Chimney Rock, Grandfather Mountain, and other places, and did a Brewery Tour.

NOTE: This year, we will be staying TWO (2) nights at the Lodge — Sunday & Monday, August 4 & 5, 2024.

Please read this entire description before you RSVP. This is a long, strenuous uphill hike to the lodge with lots of elevation gain and much colder temps at the summit. Cliff Tops sunset is spectacular, as is the Myrtle Point sunrise. Bring a camera!

We have 4 spots available this year, at $404.13 per person with an optional $14.50 cost to add bottomless wine. If less than 4 attendees, details will be provided as to the cost increase per person. Once you sign up, refund is only available if someone else takes your place. No refunds available within 30 days of our stay.

Keep in mind, there is a gift shop at the summit with unique items, including an "I hiked it" T-shirt available for purchase with a unique design each year — and bear in mind this year there will likely be additional 100th Anniversary goodies.

If you ever wanted to stay at the lodge on the summit of Mt. LeConte (accessible only by hiking), then please join us. Please be aware that this hike is listed as strenuous, and there are a few sections of trail that are exposed to some fairly steep drop-offs. If you have a fear of heights, this hike is not for you.

Details about the lodge:
http://www.lecontelodge.com/

Our plan this year will be to take the Rainbow Falls Trail (the same trail the llamas take to bring supplies up to the lodge). After checking in at the lodge, we will continue on to the summit, better known as High Top. The Rainbow Falls Trail to Mount LeConte is a challenging 6.9 mile hike with a total elevation gain of 3,993 feet. Hikers report that the beautiful Rainbow Falls, lush vegatation, and amazing scenery make the difficult hike well worth it.

Please familiarize yourself with the trail description here, if you plan on coming and don't simply rely on your hike leader to know everything: https://smokymountains.com/park/hikes/rainbow-falls-trail-mount-leconte

Roundtrip: 13.8 Miles
Summit Elevation: 6,593 ft
Elevation Gain (total): 3,993 ft
Elevation Gain (per mile): 579 ft
Trail Difficulty: Extreme

We won't have any vista views from High Top. However, there are two places on the mountain that do afford outstanding panoramic views: Myrtle Point and Cliff Top.

To reach MYRTLE POINT we'll walk another 0.4 miles, continuing down the main path, which has now turned into the Boulevard Trail. Roughly 0.2 miles from High Top we'll reach a spur trail on the right side of the trail. After turning onto the spur, we'll walk another 0.2 miles to reach Myrtle Point. This vantage point provides nearly 360-degree views, and is the best location to see the SUNRISE on Mt. LeConte.

The other place we'll visit for an outstanding view is CLIFF TOP, which is located near the LeConte Lodge. We will have passed two side trails that lead to Cliff Top, on our right, as we made our way up to High Top. Cliff Top is the best location for SUNSET views.

Additionally, a few of us are spending a few extra days in the area and everyone is invited to join as well. Although would be responsible for your own lodging, transportation, meals, and associated costs. Feel participate in as little or much of the activities as you want.

If this event shows as FULL, please let us know of your interest anyway. Last year 2 people had to bow out at the last minute, so there may still be a place for you!