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Sunrise Hike to Myrtle Point, Mt. Leconte

2 miles 400 ft gain  - Out-and-Back Trail

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Added by John Sides

Myrtle Point is hands down the best spot to watch the sunrise on Mt. Leconte. A short hike from the backcountry shelter or Leconte Lodge, this overlook is the perfect place to watch the Great Smoky Mountains come alive.

Coming from the backcountry shelter at the top of Mt. Leconte (add .2 miles if coming from the Lodge), head east on the Boulevard Trail and follow signs to Myrtle Point, 1 mile away. The trail first ascends about 200 feet to the summit (6,594 ft), which is marked by a large cairn that you’ll pass just off the trail to your right. From here the trail gently descends and comes to a junction where the Boulevard trail continues down to your left. Stay straight and the trail will follow a ridgeline out to the rocky overlook at Myrtle Point. Sit back and enjoy the show.

Winter months offer more solitude, as the Lodge closes for the winter, so there are fewer people on the mountain.

To get to the Mt. LeConte Shelter, you'll want to take one of the following hikes:
Hike to Mt. LeConte via Alum Cave Bluff
Hike to Mount LeConte-Cliff Tops via Rainbow Falls Trail
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Photography
Backpacking
Hiking
Forest
Scenic

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🥇Top Contributor

Sunrise Hike to Myrtle Point, Mt. Leconte

6 days ago

Best in fall.

This side trip from LeConte Lodge is awesome in October when the leaves have changed.

Explorer
Explorer

🥇Top Contributor

Sunrise Hike to Myrtle Point, Mt. Leconte

almost 2 years ago

Beautiful hike and views!

This hike is extremely beautiful and great views to see especially during the winter and spring when you can see the fresh snow glistening on the tree tops.

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