My system for choosing a mountain to fast pack was straight forward. Start at the highest peak and work down. The highest elevation in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) is Clingmans Dome. But that can be done with a drive and a half mile hike. So, I saved that for a recovery day. The next tallest peak is Mt. Guyot. But Guyot was reported to have limited sight lines from the top. Which brought me to the third highest peak at 6,593’ - Mt. LeConte. The mountain has 4 sub-peaks above 6.000’ to explore. Including Myrtle Point, which offers clear views in three directions. There are a number of trails to the summit. I chose the 5-mile Alum Cave Trail with an elevation gain from trailhead to summit of about 3,000’.

The first part of the trail to the Arch Rock is easy and non-technical. With a couple of bridge crossings over creeks.

Another creek bridge brings about the entrance to the Arch Rock.

Once past the Arch Rock the trail remains mostly non-technical. At least, until approaching the cave bluff. This section offers some nice trail views of the woodlands and surrounding mountain scenery.

Just short of half way to the summit are the Alum Cave Bluffs. This geological feature is not a cave but rather a massive stone overhang that extends 80’ out over the valley below.

Once past the cave bluffs the trail becomes more challenging.

A unique feature of this trail section are the multiple rock ledges tucked against the cliffs. The Park Service has installed a series of hand cables for safety on these ledges, as a fall here will take you quite a way down.

Arriving at the summit is LeConte Lodge. I had read about it, but entirely forgot it was here. My sense was, this is a very tranquil and peaceful place. With the added bonus of not having to pack a mess of gear and food up. It’s my understanding that the various cabins at the lodge can house about 50 hikers, but make your reservation well ahead of time.

Shortly past the lodge is the LeConte shelter. I had never seen a shelter up close and personal. These type of shelters are overnight homes to AT through hikers. Personally, I would rather stay at the lodge.

Continuing past the shelter is the Myrtle Point sub-peak. My first impression was, wow, I just spent all morning fast packing for one of the best views of fog in the park. I repeated this poor joke to a few other hikers on the way back down. But I stopped when some didn't get the sarcasm.

Fortunately the fog would blow in and out.  Providing for some of the nice views I was hoping for.

After spending awhile at Myrtle Point, I explored the Cliffs sub-peak and milled around a couple other trails before heading back down.