When I first got invited on this trip, all I needed to hear was that we were going to the mountains. Being a mountain mama, I said yes without hesitation. Little did I know about the adventure that awaited us as we aimed for the charming, off-the-grid backcountry luxury of Mt. LeConte. I didn’t know what to expect, and I didn’t bother to look up pictures—I just said, “I’m in.”
If you don’t know anything about Mount LeConte, it’s located in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and is renowned for its rich history and natural beauty. Standing at 6,593 feet, it is the third-highest peak in the national park and a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The mountain was named after the geologist Joseph LeConte, and its first recorded ascent was made by Paul Adams in the early 20th century. Adams played a significant role in the establishment of the LeConte Lodge in 1925, which remains one of the few backcountry lodges in the United States accessible only by foot.
Mt. LeConte was celebrating its 100th season, and it felt special to be a part of something so unique. While there are several trails leading up to the lodge, we chose the Trillium Gap Trail, which is nearly seven miles of uphill trekking. My body is still recovering, but as they say, life is a climb, and the view is always worth it.
The journey was challenging, yet each step brought a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. Along the way, we encountered breathtaking vistas, lush forests, and the kind of serene beauty that only the mountains can offer. The grass alongside the trail swayed in the wind, almost as if it were applauding us for making it this far. We endured some rainfall, which probably slowed us down, but honestly, it was the perfect amount to cool us off.
After a few hours, though, we had enough. Try eating a sandwich in the pouring rain—it’s quite a challenge! The rain made me reflect on life’s obstacles and the importance of facing them head-on. There were moments when I didn’t want to hide from the rain but rather embrace it. It was a refreshing experience.
As soon as we reached Mt. LeConte, our priority was to find shelter. We quickly located the dining room, where we were warmly greeted by other hikers who exclaimed, “You made it, congratulations!” Reaching the summit and seeing the lodge nestled amidst the peaks was an unforgettable reward.
We finally checked into our lodge, one of fewer than ten in the area. Upon arrival, we were given instructions on how to navigate off-grid living. What else would you expect at nearly 7,000 feet in elevation? We had kerosene lamps for light, no cell service, and no running water or electricity. This was ideal for me; the more disconnected I was, the better.
After unpacking, we wanted to explore the area, so we headed to the dining hall. There, people were laughing, playing cards, and enjoying pure, wholesome fun. It reminded us to go back to basics and enjoy each other’s company. Despite the limited resources and water at the lodge, each guest had a mug to serve themselves from what seemed like an unlimited supply of coffee, hot cocoa, and lemonade. Having that mug was as essential as having your phone, ensuring you were always ready for your next refill.
My favorite part of this entire experience was the dinner and breakfast. They would ring a bell for each meal so that everyone could come down to the dining room and feast. The tables were set up as if it were Thanksgiving, with phones out of sight and fresh, delicious food everywhere.
It was such a cozy experience—you could see the steam rising off the soup. Talk about farm-to-table! It was wonderful to have home-cooked meals and be surrounded by loved ones. The staff would also announce the weather and any important updates as needed. They provided recommendations for the best times to see the sunrise and sunset.
Did you know they have alpacas bring up resources a few times a week? Luckily, on our hike down, we got to see them hard at work, and they were the absolute cutest. Mt. LeConte is truly a unique experience, and I’m grateful to have experienced it.
If you have the energy, physical capability, and the right mentality, you need to hike Mt. LeConte and truly experience life without any distractions. The trails are open from late March to mid-November, offering ample opportunity to explore this majestic mountain. The staff at Mt. LeConte are outstanding; I’ve never seen people work so hard with such a genuine desire to accommodate their guests. At the end of the day, all we have is each other up on that mountaintop.
Hiking Mt. LeConte is not just a physical challenge, but also a rejuvenating escape from the noise of everyday life. The breathtaking views, camaraderie with fellow hikers, and impeccable service from the staff make for an experience that is both rewarding and memorable. So lace up your hiking boots, pack your essentials, and embark on a journey that promises to invigorate your spirit. It’s worth the hike.
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
