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Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park

9 ReviewsAdd Review

The only way to reach Mount LeConte Shelter involves hiking several hours up the mountain on one of multiple trails leading to this high-elevation site. Located near the highest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this primitive shelter sits along the Boulevard Trail, accessible only to those willing to carry their gear uphill through the backcountry.

The shelter itself provides basic accommodations with a nearby composting toilet and bear cables for food storage. Campers can pitch tents around the shelter area, which offers space for multiple groups. Water sources require advance planning, as hikers must pack in all drinking water for their stay. The site includes metal bear boxes for secure food storage, essential given the active wildlife in the area.

Several trails lead to the shelter, with Alum Cave Trail noted by visitors for its scenic route to the summit. From the shelter, campers can continue to Cliff Tops and Myrtle Point for expanded views, or connect with ridge-side loops that offer sightlines across the surrounding terrain. Michelle F. notes the practical reality: "My pack weighed at least 30lbs. and I'm new to this, so it took me forever to get up here."

Permits are required through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website, despite the free camping designation. For those seeking less demanding options, sites near Gatlinburg provide easier access to the region's camping opportunities.

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Location

Public Campground

Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located in Tennessee

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

35.65318564 N
83.43885281 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-MobileLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Drinking Water
  • Fires

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park needs a permit.

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5.0

out of 5

9 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the primitive shelter's excellent mountain location and adequate spacing for groups. Basic facilities like bear storage and composting toilets are available, though water must be packed in. Permits are required but enforcement appears inconsistent.

A
Reviewed Nov. 2, 2021

Not Free

Primitive shelter with privy and water nearby, and bear cables. But, note that it's not free. You have to get a permit through the GSMNP website.

M
Reviewed Jan. 27, 2021

Back Country Primitive Shelter

I’m a reluctant camper and hiker doing this to spend time with my family so factor that in to my review. I had a permit, but no one asked to see it. Perhaps anyone who might had left for the day. My pack weighed at least 30lbs. and I’m new to this, so it took me forever to get up here. It was dark by the time we arrived and boy, was I disappointed to learn this shelter is situated PAST the lodge. My exhaustion made the merriment I glimpsed behind its fire-warmed window panes seem cruel, but I’m sure it wasn’t as personal as it seemed in the moment. There were two other tents set up outside the shelter when we arrived so I set up my camp, silently, by the light of my otherwise useless iphone. I would’ve slept inside the shelter, even though the entrance was covered by a plastic tarp that read, “keep out” (because of COVID, maybe?), but my son told me there would be mice. Then, he did something with our food that involved some system of ropes and pulleys, but I didn’t care if I were eaten by a bear. At least then I wouldn’t have had to hike down. Or discover what a “compost toilet” is.

Nice view.

Bryan R.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2018

Breathtaking

This hike is a definite must do! Upon our arrival we were greated by the crew and directed to our cabin. The views are breathtaking and words don't say enough to describe the beautiful views of the smokey mountains! We will definitely be back!

  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Bryan R., July 9, 2018
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Bryan R., July 9, 2018
Aaron S.
Reviewed Sep. 30, 2016

We weren't at the lodge

 Primitive campsite on trail near highest mountain peak. There were several primitive campsites in close proximity. Our campsite had a large metal bear box in which you could store food and packs. The site was large enough for a few tents (2-3), we had a group of five and have more than enough room. Nearby, there was a compostable bathroom that was shared by the surrounding campsites. The toilet is rather open, and they ask to add on soil/mulch after using the bathroom. There is not a water source (to my knowledge) anywhere on the mountain or close to the trail, so you must pack in all water. This campsite is approximately a mile from the (insert mountain trail here); where it meets with (this trail), the peak is a half-mile further along. Additionally, if you continue along the (trail with the campsite), it connects with a ridge-side loop, with breathtaking views atop the ridge that look out over an immense canyon (flatlands?). On a clear day, you can easily see the Rio Grande, Mexico, and the cliffs and mountains across the border.

  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Aaron S., September 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Aaron S., September 30, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Aaron S., September 30, 2016
Ethan K.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Sep. 29, 2016

Beautiful lookout after long, but worthwhile hike

Leconte lodge is on top of mountain thats only accessible after an all day hike. Great cabin lodging at the top. If you're luck you get a great view of the Smoky Mountains but it is often cloudy. Fun board games supplied in the communal cabin at the top as well. They serve dinner when you get up (which consists of decently tasting mystery meat and some sides) and a delicious breakfast in the morning before you have to hike back down (especially the apple butter!!!)

  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Ethan K., September 29, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Ethan K., September 29, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Ethan K., September 29, 2016
  • (12) View All
Asher K.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Aug. 29, 2016

Worth the Hike

I have stayed at LeConte Lodge several times and it is one of the most incredible hiking experiences you can get. The only way to get to the site is to hike in for several hours on one of the many trails that get you up the mountain. The hike in itself is beautiful and gives you views of the Smokeys depending on which route you take. When you get to the peak you can either stay at the lodge which requires a reservation or stay in the nearby AT shelter. I recommend the lodge if you can afford it and plan enough in advance (reservations fill up quickly). When you get to the lodge they serve you hot drinks and snacks then dinner which is all included with your stay in the cabins. I believe even if you stay in the nearby shelter you can reserve a space for dinner. I highly suggest taking the ranger tour out to the cliffs for the sunset viewing. Plan this trip out in advance but it can be an incredible trip!

  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Asher K., August 29, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Asher K., August 29, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Asher K., August 29, 2016
  • (13) View All
Fain H.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Aug. 20, 2016

On top of the Smokies

I grew up hiking and staying at the lodge on Le Conte, llamas bring in your supplies up one of the few trails that lead to the top.The shelters not far from the lodge along Boulevard Trail. This is definitely the best mountain experience I've had in the southeast and one of my favorite places in the world. Alum Cave Trail is my preferred route to the top and has amazing vistas the whole way up. Once at the top Clifftops and Myrtles Point are a must.

  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Fain H., August 20, 2016
  • Review photo of Mount LeConte Shelter — Great Smoky Mountains National Park by Fain H., August 20, 2016
  • Not far from Myrtle Point
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Showing results 1-9 of 9 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Mount LeConte Shelter accommodations like?

Mount LeConte Shelter is a primitive backcountry accommodation located near the summit of one of the highest peaks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The shelter features bear cables for food storage and is situated near a water source. There's a privy (outhouse) nearby for bathroom needs. The shelter area can accommodate multiple hikers and is large enough for several tents (2-3) if needed. Located not far from LeConte Lodge along the Boulevard Trail, the shelter offers basic protection from the elements for backpackers exploring this spectacular mountain area.

Where is the parking for the Alum Cave Trailhead to reach Mt. LeConte?

The Alum Cave Trailhead parking area is located along Newfound Gap Road (US-441) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately 8 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center if coming from Gatlinburg. The parking lot is well-marked and serves as the starting point for one of the most popular routes to Mt. LeConte. During peak seasons, this lot fills up quickly, so arriving early in the morning is recommended. The trailhead has ample parking but can become crowded, especially on weekends and holidays.

How do I make reservations for the Mt. LeConte Shelter?

Reservations for the Mt. LeConte Shelter require obtaining a backcountry permit through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park reservation system. Visit the GSMNP official website to access their backcountry reservation portal. Permits must be secured in advance as the shelter is a popular destination with limited capacity. The shelter is not free to use - a permit fee applies. For specific availability and to check current regulations, contact the park's backcountry office or visit the park's official website.

Where can I find photos of the Mount LeConte trail shelter?

Photos of the Mount LeConte trail shelter can be found on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park official website and the National Park Service photo gallery. You can also check hiking websites dedicated to the Smokies, social media platforms like Instagram using hashtags #MtLeConte or #LeConte Shelter, and outdoor forums where hikers share their experiences. The Dyrt's campground page for Mount LeConte Shelter also features user-submitted photos that show the shelter and surrounding area.

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