Beech, poplar, hemlock and rhododendron are the dominant trees. The ground is well drained, free of roots and only slightly rocky. Trees are medium to large and have no low branches. Alternately a spring forms a small creek almost a half mile up trail. Intermediate distances to live water could doubtless be found.
Downed wood is abundant, but fire quality wood is scarce.
We encountered no sign of bears, however, they certainly would be no surprise. We arrived in late twilight, which appeared to be pitch black beneath the dense ceiling of leaves. Though enchanting, they tended to disorient the night hiker by constantly taking attention away from the trail. Yet their numbers were unusual even for me, accustomed to myriads of lightning bugs. The trail to Trillium Gap is a five and half mile go, add another three and a half to Le Conte.