Millions of travelers visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park every year! While many visitors enjoy staying in hotels and cabins others come looking for a more outdoorsy, rustic experience. However, there are not a lot of options when it comes to lodging at the Smoky Mountains National Park. At least not inside the park. You can camp in tents or RVs at campgrounds, but the only cabin style lodging in the park is the LeConte Lodge.
History of the Lodge
The LeConte Lodge sits high atop Mt. LeConte, which is the third highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is 6,593 feet, and the lodge is at 6,360 feet in elevation. There are 5 different trails that lead to the lodge, and they vary in length from 5.5 miles to over 8 miles! Leconte Lodge actually predates the establishment date of the national park. A man named Jack Huff started and ran the lodge beginning in 1926.
What to Expect
It’s hard to imagine any place more peaceful than the LeConte Lodge. At night you are wrapped in silence except for the sounds of nature. And on clear mornings you could be greeted by some of the most breathtaking sunrises you have ever seen! Guests are housed in hand built rough hewn log cabins with propane heat, kerosene lanterns, clean linens, and warm wool blankets. Meals are served family style. The best thing to do while staying here is to explore the area! Myrtle Point is the best place to watch the sunrises and sunsets. The lodge office also offers some games and articles to read while there as well. Here you will experience quiet simplicity where you can relax and find renewed energy at the top of the Smokies.
Other Things to Know
- If you are looking for lodging at the Smoky Mountains National Park you can only stay at the LeConte Lodge between March and November.
- There is a gift shop at the lodge where day hikers and overnight guests can buy souvenirs.
- Day hikers may visit and hangout at the lodge. They may even purchase lunch while there.
- Generally, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays llamas travel up the Trillium Gap Trail to bring supplies to the lodge.
- Wildlife can freely wander through the camp area, so stay alert and give any animals you see their space.
There is limited lodging at the Smoky Mountains National Park. However, don’t let that deter you from making a visit to the LeConte Lodge. Whether you visit just during a day hike or stay overnight in the lodge it will be an unforgettable experience! You’ll see the Smokies like never before, and experience overwhelming peace on this beautiful mountain top. Want to know more about the campgrounds in the Smoky Mountains, then check out our article about camping in the national park!
