Mt. LeConte Great Smoky Mountains National Park

They say the third time is the charm and for some that seems to work. As for me I still ask who the heck "they" are, and who gave them the right to set the rules? Once again I've broken the rules and on my fourth hike on the Alum Cave Trail in the Smoky Mountains I was able to put a little distance between me and the Bluff and journey all the way up to Mt. LeConte. For those of you living in the flatlands a mountain is an elevated piece of rock that rises high into the air and if you're lucky just might reach the clouds above. Mt. LeConte's elevation is some 6,593 feet and getting there will awaken every muscle in your body. Lucky for me I endured the Chimney Tops Trail the day before so my muscles already had a rude awakening. The climb itself leads you past countless stream side views, through the Alum Cave, and right up to the incredible views from the Alum Cave Bluff. All that and you've only hiked an hour and about two miles. You could stop there like I have twice but you better bring a note from Hiker Joe to explain why you didn't forge ahead to conquer the mountain. For those up for the challenge and a thirst for the best view in the Smoky Mountains I say onward and upward. Once you arrive at the LeConte Lodge (yes there is a place to stay for those who book far in advance) find one of the two trails that leads you up to the Cliff Tops. Is it worth the painful 5 1/2 mile, three hour (the normal climb may take four hours for some) journey? Let me say the video does not do the view justice. Once again I realize what a spec I am on this wonderful planet of ours. If you can find a piece of rock, and there are plenty up there, I suggest you take the time to soak it all in. After all life presents a moment with such granger only when we have an open mind and tired feet. In our fast paced world that comes far too little. The opened mind part that is. Personally I live for every second of moments like that.

Lost on a mountain don't come find me...

Hiker Joe