08/10/2025
Alum Cave Trail ranks as one of the most popular hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for good reason. It displays a mix of rich, rugged mountain terrain and striking sights into a route that’s manageable for most day hikers, at least up to its first notable unique geological feature—Arch Rock.
The hike to Arch Rock itself constitutes a manageable 2.5-mile round-trip, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a quick excursion that still delivers a special piece of the Smokies’ natural grandeur.
The trail follows Alum Cave Creek for its initial portion, winding through the lush forest, lined with rhododendron, blackberries, mountain laurel and other native flora, the sunlight shimmering on the spray from the stream alongside.
Find the Alum Cave Trailhead parking area on Newfound Gap Road (U.S. 441) about 6 miles south of the Sugarlands Visitor Center, outside of Gatlinburg.
Several sections require careful footing, particularly after rain, but the well-cleared path makes the trek relatively straightforward and not incredibly steep. Alongside the trail, visitors will likely hear the steady gurgling of the creek, a cool, calming soundtrack for much of the hike.
About 1.2 miles in, hikers reach Arch Rock, the trail’s first major landmark and a popular Great Smoky Mountains sight and photo spot. A narrow beam of a footbridge leads directly to the lower mouth of the cavern. Here, hikers ascend a set of roughly 50 stone stairs that curve their way through the tunnel-like formation carved in the black slate, the staircase leading right up and through this towering rock arch.
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https://boropulse.com/2025/07/alum-cave-trail-smoky-mountain-path-along-shimmering-mountain-stream-leads-to-impressive-arch-rock-summits-mt-leconte/
