Get ready for an authentic backwoods Smoky Mountain stay at the iconic LeConte Lodge . Atop one of the most iconic peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the lodge is the only fixed structure in the 816 square miles of the national park where visitors can stay overnight in a permanent structure.

The Journey to the Lodge
When you visit Sevierville–and the LeConte Lodge–getting there is part of the fun. Being the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States–and located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park –it is accessible via only one mode of transportation: good, old-fashioned hiking. While there’s no workaround for the trek over the hills and through the woods, there are a few tips for getting up to the lodge.

Several trails lead up to Mount LeConte, so choose according to your desired length, intensity, and points of interest to see along the way. Special permits are also needed to park at trailheads overnight, which must be printed and placed in your vehicle’s dashboard before you depart. The overnight tags are in addition to the Park it Forward daily national park parking.

The Lodge Experience
While waterpark resorts, boutique hotels, and glamping tents all offer their own unique experiences, LeConte Lodge truly sets itself apart from other overnight accommodations; it’s a true rustic retreat with simple accommodations and stunning views. Rather than being greeted by the latest entertainment of today’s cabins, the handful of humble, rough-hewn log cabins of LeConte Lodge are outfitted with simple furnishings that reflect the spirit of the Smoky Mountains. Adding to the allure of the retreat, everyday advances of electricity and running water are also limited. Reservations at the lodge are in high demand, so be sure to plan far in advance.

High on LeConte
The primary attraction at LeConte Lodge is, of course, the stunning views of the surrounding national park. Sightseeing produces natural quality time, no matter if it’s taking in panoramic views from the summit, catching a sunrise from scenic overlooks, exploring walking paths, or simply taking in the sights and sounds of wildlife from the lodge’s rocking chairs. Day hikers and campers alike will appreciate mild temperatures throughout even the hottest of days of the summer months, while visiting earlier or later in the season might garner views of snow-capped peaks. Hearty, family-style meals and board games paired with hot cocoa in the lodge also foster camaraderie amongst fellow guests.

100 Years and Counting
With the start of the 2025 season, The LeConte Lodge has been a haven for hikers and outdoors enthusiasts for 100 years, and while not much has or is forecasted to change, there are a few things on the horizon for the lodge.

To commemorate its 100th season, the lodge is selling shirts marked especially with its 100th anniversary. Exclusive anniversary apparel can be purchased at the lodge bearing the honorary phrase “I hiked it”.

A shuttle service is also in the works for this year. This will give hikers a convenient option for transportation to and from the trailheads without the need to park at the trailheads overnight.

Young llamas are scheduled to join the famed llama train of Mount LeConte that’s been in operation since 1986. Once trained, the cria will join the thrice weekly transport of fresh supplies up the mountain and packing out refuse on their way down via Trillium Gap Trail.

Alum Cave Trail

• Distance: 5.0 miles from US HWY 441 to lodge.
• Elevation: 2,700′ up / 100′ down
• Landmarks: Arch Rock, Inspiration Point, Alum Cave Bluffs

Brushy Mountain Trail

• Distance: 9.1 miles from Greenbrier Road terminus to lodge.
• Elevation: 4,600′ up / 100′ down
• Landmarks: Old Homestead, Trillium Gap, access to Brushy Mountain summit

The Boulevard Trail

• Distance: 8.1 miles from Newfound Gap to lodge.
• Elevation: 2,700′ up / 1,300′ down
• Landmarks: Newfound Gap; historic Appalachian Trail; access to The Jumpoff; access to Myrtle Point, High Top

Bullhead Trail

• Distance: 6.9 miles from Cherokee Orchard to lodge.
• Elevation: 4,000′ up / 150′ down
• Landmarks: The Pulpit

Rainbow Falls Trail

• Distance: 6.7 miles from Cherokee Orchard to lodge.
• Elevation: 3,900′ up / 100′ down
• Landmarks: Rainbow Falls, Rocky Spur Overlook

Trillium Gap Trail

• Distance: 6.7 miles from Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to lodge.
• Elevation: 3,300′ up / 100′ down
• Landmarks: Grotto Falls, Trillium Gap, access to Brushy Mountain summit