April 13th, 2015

4/13/2015

Not a bad way to spend the afternoon.

Hello folks! Writing from the clouds today. Yesterday was beautiful and mostly sunny. The high reached 57 and the overnight low was only 36. I spent most of my afternoon cocooned in a hammock listening to the goings-on of camp around me and reading a very good book! However it doesn't look like anyone is going to get the chance to lie in the sun today as we are completely socked in up here! It's spitting a little rain, but mostly it's just condensation coming off the trees. It is a bit windy and the temperature right now is 46.

Maybe I'll just finish my book inside today...Ya'll have a great afternoon!

Camp today...a stark contrast from yesterday's sunshine.

elktonbrant

4/13/2015 05:17:52 am

Ruthie, glad you got the chance to sneak away with a good book on Sunday. It was nice to meet you on Saturday as we were two of the many hikers who took advantage of perfect weather to come up and visit. You were clearly running around having to manage a thousand little details, but you were very kind to stop and talk to us for a moment, and we appreciated that.
My wife and I were in the dining hall enjoying our lunch (and hot chocolate/coffee/lemonade) celebrating our 36th time to the top. While we were in there, we heard Brad and Nicholette answer the same questions at least 5 times (Do you hike to work every day or do you live here, etc.). Each time, they handled the question with the same politeness as if they had never answered it before.
Kenneth was also doing an excellent job manning the t-shirt exchange with patience as we picked out our 2015 rewards.
We just wanted to say thanks again for the hospitality.

Anthony

4/13/2015 06:19:46 am

Gotta ask, what is the title and author of your very good book?

Chris Schultz link

4/13/2015 12:58:33 pm

Might it be one written by a certain local author who recently sent up two copies of his new novel which was dedicated it in part to the workers of LeConte Lodge? If so, he would love to hear your thoughts about it. :-)

Sandra

4/13/2015 06:34:28 am

I don't think I've ever had a view like that from my hammock! Gorgeous!!

Josh

4/13/2015 08:13:29 am

I am schedule to stay this Sunday evening. The one thing that looks certain is that we will have a good chance for rain. Any recommendations for recommended rain gear?

elktonbrant

4/13/2015 09:06:28 am

I would recommend spending some extra money and buying gear that is breathable. My wife and I have a mishmash of rain gear from several brands (REI, Marmot, the North Face, Columbia, etc.) and our boots are also waterproof. Years ago we both had water failures with cheaper boots, and spending more truly does get you better construction. Also, don't forget to have a sufficient cover for your backpack, as nothing ruins a trip more than having to buy a new camera or phone!
Bottom line is that the old 99 cent poncho isn't very good for a hike. You'll soon be as soaked with sweat on the inside as you would be wet from the rain. Stores such as REI, the NOC in Gatlinburg, or other sporting goods stores would be good places to start.
I have also read on this blog over the years that there are many people who simply prefer to cover their backpacks then hike with an umbrella (I think JP may have mentioned this at some point in the past). Dry feet=fun hike. Wet feet=blisters=bad hike.

Kent

4/13/2015 12:40:09 pm

I think it's important to add that one should never totally rely on a backpack cover to keep the contents inside dry. Always pack clothes and other valuables in plastic.

Captian Obvious

4/13/2015 08:27:05 am

Rain coat, Rain Pants and maybe an umbrella?

Mike

4/14/2015 01:04:33 pm

Thanks to the LeConte crew for another enjoyable stay on Monday night. You guys and gals are the greatest!

Natalie Bolin

4/14/2015 04:47:34 pm

Can't wait till May 18th!! Plan to be at the top of Mt Leconte!!

Dispatch

4/14/2015 06:24:11 pm

Great job tonight, Ruthie! We really appreciate all you do for the visitors and your guests. I hope you get another great hammock day soon, as it is well deserved.

norman

4/15/2015 01:16:02 am

Hope you get some sun shine for power?!?

Mt. Leconte

4/18/2015 06:47:11 am

Thanks 700! Hah! It's always a delight to radio with you!

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April 13th, 2015

LeConte Lodge

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