For the several decades, TEHCC has organized a summer weekend trip to Mount LeConte Lodge in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This lodge (elevation 6593 ft) can only be reached by hiking trails. Even supplies are brought in by llama train once a week. The hiking distance to the lodge is 5.5 to 7.8 miles one-way depending on the route. The package price this year is $138.30 per person which includes supper on Saturday, lodging for the night, and breakfast on Sunday. We have four reservations in a five-person cabin (double bunk beds and a single). If you are interested in one or more of these reservations, please contact Steve Falling, 423-239-5502, for availability. You must be a TEHCC member to participate in this outing. You can find out more about Mount LeConte Lodge at www.leconte-lodge.com.
Mt. LeConte Lodge, Trip Report
Vic Hasler Reporting
This year’s reservation was split into two hiking pairs. Clark and Vic Hasler headed up Rainbow Falls Trail, while Steven Clark and Lindsey Renfro took the Alum Cave Trail up. (Note: The lodge register indicates that 90+% use this latter route.) Clark Hasler had an up-close view of a bear which crossed the trail. The clear and sunny day was 20oF cooler up on top, so a pleasant 50-70s versus the heat wave below. Both groups arrived by early afternoon, thus time for naps and/or exploring. After a rosy sunset, those in the office building were entertained by an informal bluegrass gig, playing in the light of kerosene lanterns, consisting of two guitars, a harmonica, and percussion using a plastic storage tub. The morning had a crisp sunrise for any eyes that were open. After breakfast, the two hiking pairs headed down with the Haslers taking the lesser used Bull Head Trail (only meeting two folks along the way).
Mt LeConte Lodge July 9 – 10
Though the trip is full for this year, there is a waiting list available. To be placed on the waiting list, please send requests to chair@tehcc.org.