Alum Cave Trail, Hiking trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, United States.
Description
Alum Cave Trail is a hiking path in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, that climbs through old forest to a rock shelter formed from black slate. Along the way, hikers pass Arch Rock, a natural tunnel, and sandstone cliffs that rise beside the ascending route.
History
Between 1838 and the mid-1840s, workers mined alum and Epsom salts here, with operations briefly resuming during the Civil War. The cave itself is actually an overhanging bluff that formed through erosion over thousands of years.
Culture
Gracie's Pulpit, a vista point along the route, honors Gracie McNichol who hiked here on her 92nd birthday. Visitors often pause at this spot to take in the long-range views and rest before continuing upward.
Practical
Two parking areas at the trailhead offer access from Newfound Gap Road, with early arrival recommended on weekends and during peak season. The path climbs steadily, with some steel cables along steeper sections to help hikers ascend.
Did you know?
From Inspiration Point roughly halfway along, hikers see the Eye of the Needle, a natural opening in Little Duck Hawk Ridge across the valley. This narrow gap in the rock stands out against the sky and is a popular photograph subject for visitors.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Sevier County).
Great Smoky Mountains
9.7 km
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
3.6 km
Kuwohi
9.7 km
Mount Le Conte
1.9 km
Chimney Tops
3 km
Gatlinburg Space Needle
10.4 km
Noah Ogle Place
6.3 km
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
10.1 km
Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers
10 km
Mount Collins
6.3 km
The Boulevard Trail
2.6 km
John Ownby Cabin
10.8 km
Bullhead Trail
9.5 km
John Messer Barn
6.9 km
Sugarland Mountain Trail
5.9 km
Alex Cole Cabin
7.6 km
Anakeesta
9.5 km
Clingmans Dome Observation Tower
9.6 km
Headquarters Bridge
9.7 km
Rockefeller Memorial
3.6 km
Headquarters Building
9.8 km
Arch Rock
716 m
Roaring Fork Historic District
6.9 km
Clingmans Dome Information Center and Store
10.1 km
Sugarlands Visitor Center
9.7 km
David Crockett Theatre
10.3 km
Alfred Reagan Tub Mill
7.4 km
Ephraim Bales Cabin
6.9 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes