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Hikers make their way to the summit of Mount LeConte via Alum Cave. A helicopter will ferry demolition debris from the site of the old LeConte Lodge, and some brief trail closures may result. Some areas of the summit may also be closed. Thomas Fraser/Hellbender Press

Demolition of LeConte Lodge may require a rest stop for summit-bound hikers

This is a news release from the National Park Service.

GATLINBURG — As the demolition of the LeConte Lodge Recreation Building continues, the National Park Service's contractor on the project will conduct helicopter airlifts the mornings of Aug.10-14. The contractor has made significant progress with most of the timber structure demolished and the focus is now on the basement, stonewalls, and foundation. During this second set of airlifts, demolished materials will be flown off the mountain via helicopter. 

Airlifts are scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon each day during the second week of August. In the event of hazardous weather, the airlifts will be delayed. 

Visitors driving US441/Newfound Gap Road near the Oconaluftee Overlook, just south of Newfound Gap, should expect temporary traffic delays while the helicopter loads and unloads materials.  

The LeConte Lodge Recreation Building, built between the late 1960s and early 1970s, has served for more than 50 years as a gathering space and retreat for overnight guests from around the world. Exposure to harsh weather at 6,500 feet elevation has caused significant deterioration to the building, beyond what can be rehabilitated. For the safety of visitors and employees, the structure will be replaced later this year.   

National Park Service 

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