Hike to Mount LeConte on Trillium Gap Trail

This 13.0-mile (20.9-km) roundtrip hike begins at the Trillium Gap Trailhead near Gatlinburg.

Bob Carr Photo

Overview

Parking is often full—please arrive early or consider using a shuttle; trail is often icy in winter months

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.

Length

13.0 miles (20.9 km) roundtrip

Parking

Trillium Gap Trailhead on one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Parking is often full—consider a shuttle or arrive early

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
• Appalachian Trail & Boulevard Trail to Mount LeConte: 16.2 miles (26.1 km) roundtrip
• Bullhead Trail to Mount LeConte: 13.6 miles (21.9 km) roundtrip
• Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte: 10 miles (16-km) roundtrip
• Rainbow Falls Trail to Mount LeConte: 13.0 miles (21.0 km) roundtrip

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

This trail is steep and rocky, and includes stairs and bridges.