GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Monday was a busy day for workers at the LeConte Lodge, who said they spent much of the day in the cold unloading supplies from helicopters. They are working to prepare for the start of the 2024 season.
The lodge is at an elevation of around 6,400 ft. on Mt. LeConte, in the Great Smoky Mountains. It is a popular spot for adventurers and visitors to the national park, offering cozy and off-grid lodging for anyone who treks up the miles-long trails leading to the lodge.
The 2024 season officially starts on March 25, when it will start welcoming people through the front doors. It lasts until Nov. 26, and the lodge said most reservations are already booked for the season.
"Exciting times are ahead, but more work to be done in the meantime. Have a great day," the lodge said in a blog posted on Tuesday.
Because the lodge is so high up, supplies need to be either flown in or taken up the mountain on llamas. The animals were an addition to the lodge in 1986, and use the Trillium Gap Trail to get to the lodge.
Visitors at the lodge can generally take pictures with the llamas, but the lodge said they are working animals and asked visitors not to get too close to them. Visitors also are encouraged not to pet the llamas, since they are not accustomed to it.
