The crew will focus on targeted locations throughout the 5-mile trail to improve visitor safety and stabilize eroding sections. The work will require temporary trail closures throughout the two-year process.

Offering a route to Arch Rock, Inspiration Point, Alum Cave Bluffs, Mt. Le Conte and LeConte Lodge, the trail is one of the most well-traveled in the park. 

Rangers respond to numerous accidents each year, especially along the upper, narrow corridors. The work will improve safety and protect natural resources through repairs to historic cable and handrail systems, reinforcing hanging trail sections, reducing erosion and improving drainage. 

“Alum Cave Trail has so many unique natural and historic features,” said Trails Supervisor Tobias Miller. “Our crew is working alongside the park’s cultural and natural resource managers as we plan the restoration to insure that features are protected as we improve trail durability and safety.”

In 2015, the trail and parking areas will be closed 7 a.m. Mondays through 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, from May through November. 

Trails Forever is a partnership program to provide skilled reconstruction of priority trails between Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Friends of the Smokies. The Friends have donated $500,000 to support the program, in part through the generosity of the Knoxville-based Aslan Foundation.

www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/alum-cave-closure-faqs.htm