Remote LeConte Lodge on Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Gets New Manager for 2015
When LeConte Lodge opens next year in the spring it will be with new management! Chris and Allyson Virden have managed the lodge for 12 years but when the lodge closed for the season a few days ago they will move on to a new way of life. The new manager for LeConte Lodge will be a former lodge crew member Ruthie Puckett from Alabama. LeConte Lodge sits at the top of Mt. LeConte in the Great Smoky Mountains National
LeConte Lodge atop of Mt. LeConte in the GSMNP
Park in Tennessee at an elevation of about 6400 feet. LeConte Lodge is reportedly the highest guest lodge in the eastern United States.
LeConte Lodge Hiking
There are no roads to the lodge, it can only be reached by one of the five hiking trails that lead to the lodge. Three times a week supplies are taken to the lodge by llamas using one of the trails. There are several sleeping cabins (for up to about 60 guest) and a dining hall for the guest once they have reached the lodge after their hike to the location. The lodge is heated with propane and there is limited electricity.
LeConte Lodge Reservations
Reservations are needed and the lodge has a booming business, so plan ahead.
Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte in the GSMNP
Once reaching the summit a beautiful sunset can be seen from the top and early risers can view the next morning’s sunrise. There is even a LeConte Lodge tee shirt available once you reach the top you are in the special club of hikers that can say they have made it to the summit of Mt. LeConte! LeConte Lodge is only open each year from late March to mid-November. For more information or for reservations call (865) 429-5704.
Take a look around LeConte Lodge grounds and buildings…
And here is a the llama supply train in action…
