GATLINBURG, Tenn. — Great Smoky Mountains National Park crews will use helicopters next week to remove materials from the recently demolished LeConte Lodge Recreation Building, a project aimed at preparing the site for construction of a replacement facility.
The airlift operations are scheduled for September 14-18, with flights expected between 9 a.m. and noon each day. Park officials say weather conditions could alter the schedule, forcing delays or extending operations beyond the planned flight window. Backup dates have been reserved from September 19-25 if needed.
Motorists traveling on U.S. 441/Newfound Gap Road near the Oconaluftee Overlook, just south of Newfound Gap, should anticipate temporary traffic stops while helicopters load and unload materials.
For safety reasons, LeConte Lodge will be closed to hikers during the active flight periods. Visitors will not have access to the lodge’s gift shop, restrooms, water spigots, or food and beverage services while helicopters are operating. Those services will reopen after daily airlift activities conclude.
Despite the temporary closures around the lodge itself, hikers will still be allowed to access trails and overlooks on Mount Le Conte. Park staff will station flaggers at three points near the lodge to stop trail traffic when helicopters are actively moving materials.
During the closures, hikers may use a composting privy located at the Mount Le Conte Shelter. The shelter remains closed because of bear activity. Water is available from a nearby spring along Trillium Gap Trail, although park officials recommend boiling or treating the water before use.
The LeConte Lodge Recreation Building, constructed between the late 1960s and early 1970s, served guests for more than five decades as a gathering place and retreat atop Mount Le Conte. Park officials say years of exposure to harsh weather at the mountain’s high elevation caused extensive deterioration that could not be safely repaired.
The structure is being removed to protect visitors and employees. A new recreation building is planned for construction later this year and will be designed to reflect the character and spirit of the original lodge facility, continuing its role as a central gathering space for overnight guests.
