March 24, 2024

Good Afternoon,

It’s the Eve of Opening Day 2024 and the 100th season of LeConte Lodge. Sounds like the spring breakers have arrived to the Smokies en masse this Palm Sunday. With such nice weather expected tomorrow, one would fully expect the trails of Mt. LeConte to be hopping! It’s been another exciting day full of prep work and fine tuning in anticipation of Monday’s first arrivals. Sunshine, blustery winds, and temps near 50° are on tap for the new week.

Recently, the National Park Service decided to close the Office building historically used for providing check-in and retail services at the lodge. While plans for its renovation continue to go through the motions, the Dining Hall will now serve as the major hub for the overnight guest and day hiker experience. Here are some key things to expect upon arriving at the lodge beginning tomorrow…

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Q: Where can visitors purchase merchandise like the famous “I Hiked It” shirts now?
A: The Dining Hall will house the Gift Shop, welcoming both overnight guests and day hikers inside during posted hours.

Q: Will overnight guests still get served meals family style in the Dining Hall?
A: Absolutely! Same times, same place, same delicious Southern fix-in’s, same unforgettable lodge experience.

Q: Can the Dining Hall really accommodate the inclusion of a Gift shop?
A: Yes! It’s impressive just how spacious the hall is, and although a few tables have been shuffled around, there remains adequate space for visitors to safely and comfortably access the gift shop, utilize dining tables, and enjoy views from the back porch.

Q: What will the check-in process be like for overnight guests now?
A: First, follow and read all signage directing you toward and inside the Dining Hall. A party leader should then check-in with a crewmember at the kitchen counter instead of at the Gift Shop. Tours of camp will ensue without disrupting customers in line looking to purchase souvenirs.

Q: What else can visitors do inside the Dining Hall besides shop for souvenirs or eat meals as overnight guests?
A: To-go lunches, baked goods, and other snacks will be sold from the Gift Shop as normal. Games will be available to all those interested, as well as string guitars upon request. We’ve even incorporated some of the famous historical and interpretive pictures from the former Office. Overnight guests will be served complimentary drinks during posted hours, and still have self-service beverages at night and before breakfast.

Q: What about the swing and rocking chairs from the Office porch?
A: The swing has been relocated to the Dining Hall back porch, paired with some new rockers we think you’ll enjoy (special announcement forthcoming!). Of course, now day hikers will be able to utilize the dining tables inside during posted hours. And there are nine outside picnic tables around camp for visitors to enjoy. Remember to pack out all trash, and to respect that porches of guest cabins are for those paying guests with reservations only.

Q: So aside from having to transition certain services from one building to another, will that much really change for the average visitor?
A: While we share in the memories and value all that the Office building offered to decades of visitors, we eagerly look forward to what renovations are in store for the structure. LeConte Lodge also remains unphased by new challenges and fully committed to providing a positive and memorable experience in the backcountry. Friendly service with a smile, delicious food after a day on the trail, must-have purchases and memorabilia, laughs and sing-alongs with friends, captivating sunsets with family…they’re all coming at you same as they ever have for 99 seasons prior.


We take pride in what we do, and our crew is stacked with folks who take hospitality to heart. So, beginning tomorrow, come on up and let us make your mountain getaway a special one…for the 100th time.