Reaching a height of 6,593 feet in elevation, Mount LeConte is the third-highest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is an unforgettable adventure for hikers exploring the Smoky Mountains.

There are several different trails to the summit of Mount LeConte that vary in length, but all are at least 5 miles in length and all have signficant elevation gain along the way. The best way to hike Mount LeConte if you’re looking for a loop is to combine the Rainbow Falls Trail for the ascent and the Bullhead Trail for the descent. This creates a roughly 15-mile loop that’s both grueling and satisfying. This hike up Mount LeConte delivers everything: cascading waterfalls, expansive vistas, and the kind of nature therapy that stays with you long after your legs recover.

Hike Description

The hike begins at the Rainbow Falls/Cherokee Orchard Trailhead, just off Cherokee Orchard Road. This is a popular trailhead on a one-way loop road that fills up quickly, so it is best to show up early to ensure you get a spot. You’ll also need to display a Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag (or a one of the Interagency Annual Passes) on your dashboard when you park.

The trail starts with a moderate, but steady climb, weaving through the forest and alongside the cascades of of LeConte Creek. After 2.7 miles and about 1,500 feet of climbing, you’ll arrive at Rainbow Falls, an 80-foot spectacle that’s well worth a snack and photo stop. Sunlight often refracts through the mist, creating the vibrant rainbow effect that gives the falls its name—a true Smokies highlight. Though.when we were there it was quite dry, so no rainbows!

From Rainbow Falls, the trail’s difficulty ramps up and the crowds thin out. The remaining 4 miles to the summit feature steep switchbacks, rocky terrain, and significant elevation gain. This section is challenging, but the reward is sweet.

Just before the top of Mount LeConte, you’ll reach the historic LeConte Lodge, a rustic, high-altitude retreat where hikers often gather to swap stories and soak in the views (and somewhere we want to spend the night on one of these trips). Keep climbing to the summit ridge to enjoy the views at Cliff Tops and Myrtle Point, along with the summit itself.

You’ll come back out at LeConte Lodge and then follow the Bullhead Trail down. The Bullhead Trail offers a quieter and even more scenic way back down that the Rainbow Falls trail offered on the way up. This 6.4-mile route showcases stunning ridgeline views, particularly on clear days. You’ll also pass through sections of forest regenerating from past wildfires—a testament to the resilience of the Smokies - and somewhat challenging for those with a fear of heights and openness like Jeff (though he’s done it twice and survived).

Trail Details

• Distance: Roughly 15 miles

• Elevation Gain: 4,000+ feet

• Difficulty: Strenuous

Mount LeConte challenges every step, but the reward is worth it: waterfalls, sweeping vistas, and the chance to stand atop one of the Smokies’ iconic peaks.

For More Information About This Hike

You can find out more about this hike here:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park Map

• Hiking Trails of the Smokies Guidebook

• AllTrails - Great Smoky Mountains National Park Trails

• AllTrails - Subscription and National Park Pass Bundle

• FarOut App

Our Hiking Advice and Hiking Gear Recommendations

• Favorite Hiking Gear

• Favorite Day Pack Recommendations

• Favorite Hiking Gear Under $30

• Ten Essentials for Hiking

• Recommended Gear on Amazon

• Best Smartwatch for Hiking

• Best Sunglasses for Hiking

• Best Water Filter for Hiking

Gear we used on this hike:

• Goodr Sunglasses

• REI Traverse 32 Pack

• REI Flash Air 50 Pack

• Gossamer Gear Shoulder Strap Pockets

• Altra Lone Peak Hiking Shoes

• Darn Tough Midweight Hiking Socks

• Deliberate Life Design Hiking Sandals

• Black Diamond Trail Back Trekking Poles

• REI Traverse Trekking Poles

• Eddie Bauer HYOH T-Shirt

• EMS Techwick Essentials Sleeveless Tee

• Patagonia Multi Trails Shorts

• Energizer LED Headlamps

• NEMO Chipper Reclaimed Closed-Cell Foam Seat Pad

• Nalgene 32-ounce Wide-Mouth Water Bottles

• Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter

• Garmin Forerunner 255 Smartwatch

• Garmin Instinct Smartwatch

• Garmin InReach Explorer+ GPS

Some product links are affiliate links and we earn from qualifying purchases. Others are links through the Amazon Influencer program and as an Amazon Influencer, we earn from qualifying purchases. Still others, we just want you to know about some good gear we enjoy!

Important Hiking Considerations:

• Weather: Check the weather forecast before your hike and be prepared for changes in conditions. 

• Safety: Some sections of the trail can be steep and rocky, so always use caution and watch your footing.

• Leave No Trace: As with any outdoor activity, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out any trash, stay on the trail, and be respectful of the natural environment.