We hiked up as far as the falls last summer. Carried a pack and only about 15 lbs. man, that was tough on the legs. Up and up and up, no respite. But just beautiful. The wife didn't want to go the rest of the way, or I would have. Check on-line for shelter availability.
Alum Cave trail was closed for maintenance last year - but it is shorter to the top then Rainbow Falls. Another option might be to take the AT from NewFound gap about 3 miles to Icewater Spring shelter. Then the next day, about 5.5 miles on the boulevard trail to Mt LeConte shelter. I was thinking about doing that this fall or next year. The Boulevard is supposed to be amazing at the top of the ridge.
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