Me & my 18 year old son made this hike on December 15, 2014. It was a strange weather event that day because of an inversion. The temperature at the highest point was about 10 degrees warmer than at the base. The trail at the base and for the first mile and a half or so was covered in snow and ice but at the top it was muddy or dry. The views were breathtaking from the bluff. There is a bathroom at the base but it was closed.
We have hiked the Alum Cave trail a few times, as it's always been a favorite. The hike starts off crossing and then following the creek for a mile or so, before crossing it again. During this stretch, it's an easy to moderate hike, and maybe a little boring for the true mountain hiker. But, take time to notice the large Western Hemlock trees, and vegetation along this beautiful creek. As you cross back over the water, this is where the hike becomes a little more strenuous. You ascend thru a cave-like overhang via stone steps and a cable wire handle for about 50'. This area can get a little tricky for some, especially in bad weather. After that, it's a fairly steep and rocky hike the next mile or so to Inspiration point. This is a clearing in the tree line offering the best views, along this hike, of the Smokies. You'll recognize it from the path taking a sharp right turn in a very rocky area. Note- if you look closely toward the adjacent ridge line, you may notice the nest of Falcons near the "eye of the needle". It's a small rock formation that you can see all the way through. Don't be disappointed if you don't see the birds, as many don't. We've only spotted them a few times over the yrs. this is a picture takers dream. From here, it a short 10 min hike on to Alum Cave. There's plenty of room to eat lunch, or just relax and take in the scenery. If you're truly adventurous, the trail continues another 2.8 mikes to The Lodge at the top. That's a whole other hike and a whole different review. As it's not meant for beginners. (Much More strenuous). All in all, the Alum Cave trail is one of the best day hikes in the park. And offers a little of everything. Please remember, especially if you're headed past the cave, to pack some essentials. Plenty of water, snacks, a light source, dry socks and good hiking shoes or boots. Bring a rain shell as the weather turns nasty quick. We got pounded with snow coming down on our last hike. And yes, there is wildlife that can be spotted at times, and that means bears as well. We saw tracks in the snow. We highly recommend this trail...
I have done this trail a lot. It tends to be one of the more busier trails up to Mt. Leconte lodge. Beautiful views up towards the top. They are closing this trail down next year starting in May-Nov. of 2015 during the week for repairs. So if you have your heart set on it, you may want to plan accordingly. Its the shortest trail to the lodge. But I'd have to say I have done Rainbow and this one is much nicer. Not as many rocks. I have seen a lot of people over 70 do this trail. So don't let the reviews scare you. You will get that WOW view.
This is the trail we chose to hike to Mt LeConte...& totally blown away by the views along the way. If you're only hiking to this area & turning back, it's still one awesome hike!!! Try it!
beautiful views the entire hike! If you are day hiking, and want to make it to the top and back, get an early start. Takes the average person 3 hours up and 2 hours doen without stopping.
The most beautiful hike I have ever been on, and ive done a lot of hiking. You must put this on you bucket list and be sure to stay the night at Mt LeConte at the top.
Our family really enjoyed this trail. We had done Rainbow Falls the day before and had enjoyed that but we all agreed that we liked Alum Cave better. The first mile along the water was beautiful and pleasant. Once you pass through the arch, the elevation climb was evident but it was not too bad. I do have a bit of a fear of heights and the last 500 ft or so made me a little nervous . The actual Alim Cave was really pretty and the kids enjoyed climbing up there. It was a great hike for a family with teens!
We started at noon and was back about 3. It was a great hike to complete for the day. There are some great views past the tunnel.
We hiked this trail in December. It was drizzling most of the day so the path was extremely muddy; however, the views were stunning! The sound of the rushing water coupled with the beauty on both sides of the path made for an enjoyable hike. The path is well marked. There are 2 wide bridges at the beginning, and 3 log bridges further on in the hike. The stone steps underneath a huge natural arch was neat. We made it to Inspiration Point and then turned around as it was getting dark. If you only have time to hike 1 path, this one is definitely a must!
We enjoyed this hike because there were so many different things to see along the way. My daughter loved climbing on all the different rocks, although at times it was difficult with all the tree roots & rocks along the trail path. Nice gradual climb and areas to stop and take a rest break. There were a few one handed bridges that we got to cross and climbing up through a cave made us feel like real adventurers! The top of the trial at Alum Cave was awesome. Spectacular view! We did not go all the way to Mt. LeConte as I didn't feel our kids (or us adults) could handle the steep trail. I would definitely recommend this hike to anyone going to the national park.