Mount LeConte Lodge via the Boulevard Trail

Begin your adventure by arriving at the Newfound Gap parking lot - before first light. Why? Because you won't want to miss the incredible sunrise from the parking lot - even before you step foot on the trail!

It is said that a hiker will never get overly warm hiking the Boulevard to Leconte due to the fact that you will never drop below 5,500ft above sea level. However, in the cooler months - keep in mind that the weather can be the harshest in the area. Even with no snow in the surrounding towns, there can still be ice and snow found in all areas around Newfound Gap. Be prepared.

With that in mind...
Your journey will begin with you hiking east on the AT. After 10 minutes or so, you'll pass a small marker for a side spot known as "The Jump Off".. It is not recommended however that you jump off! It's about a mile round trip to the Jump Off and will be well worth it, if the skies are clear. Once back on the AT - continue on. At around 2.7 miles, you'll reach the Boulevard Trail. You now have 5.3 miles or so until you reach your destination! Don't get tricked back the high altitude however - the Boulevard is just as rewarding and challenging as other trails in the GSMNP.

While working your way towards LeConte you'll be treated to the following:

A gorgeous view of the North Carolina side of the GSMP, wildflowers (if in season), a view of Mount LeConte itself and Myrtle Point, one area of trail with view directly to your left and right, peace, serenity(we didn't pass or see anyone at all on Boulevard), a section of cable trail in a landslide area, the spur trail to reach Myrtle Point(another amazing view), the LeConte shelter and also High Top, the highest point on the mountains - a pile of rocks.. That will hopefully someday be higher than Clingmans. ( Leconte is the 3rd highest point with Mount Guyot being 2nd and Clingmans being 1st.)

Once you reach the Mount LeConte Lodge. Check in, check out your cabin, explore and take in a gorgeous sunset at Cliff Top. Then head back to the dining room for a delicious family style dinner served by the light of lanterns. Spend some time in the office - checking out numerous books, board games, warming up by the fire, chatting with other hikers, etc. Sleep cozily under crazy warm wool blankets and rise before the sun...because the sunrise from Mount LeConte Lodge or Myrtle Point is something that you will not want to miss out on! Directly after breakfast, fuel up with a fantastic breakfast at the lodge, explore some more and then take which ever route that you wish to finish up your adventure with! (With planning, you can return on Boulevard or choose one of the other four trails.)

Once back to your car.. You will have already decided that you need to do it again.. And again.... And again...