A Natural History of Mount Le Conte

Widely regarded as the crown jewel of the Great Smoky Mountains, Mount Le Conte harbors the greatest concentration of notable geological features in all of the Smokies. This unique book tells the history of the mountain, offering visitors a greater appreciation of its scenic splendor.

Kenneth Wise and Ron Petersen combine their intimate knowledge of Le Conte with a wealth of scientific and historical information. Following introductory coverage of the mountain’s geologic history and human exploration, they follow the six main trails up the mountain--Alum Cave, Bullhead, Rainbow Falls, Trillium Gap, Brushy Mountain, and Boulevard--and reveal each one to be not merely a path but a rich source of historical and personal testimony. A final chapter covers the distinguishing features of the summit itself.

Along each route, the authors explain how the trail was developed and provide historic background for well-known landmarks, from Inspiration Point to Huggins Hell. They offer informative descriptions of the plants and wildlife indigenous to Mount Le Conte as well as observations on the effects of environmental changes on the landscape.

The book is illustrated with dozens of photographs, many of historic interest. Also included is a fold-out vista map of ten panoramas visible along the way, indicating the notable features that can be seen from each vantage point. Whether you’re viewing LeConte from the Lodge or hiking its slopes, this book will enhance your enjoyment of this crown jewel of the Smokies. A Natural History of Mount LeConte is unlike any other book available on this magnificent mountain. It shows that history and natural history are two sides of the same coin and will make visiting or hiking the peak a more rewarding experience.

Kenneth Wise, an administrator at the University of Tennessee Library, Knoxville, has hiked in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than twenty years. He is the author of Hiking Trails of the Great Smoky Mountains: A Comprehensive Guide.