August 7, 2022

Good Morning,

Already a week into August and the summer of rain continues. Clouds and scattered storms hounded the mountain yesterday but eventually gave way for a superbly clear evening. Always a treat when guests get to end the day on a solid note after what can be a wet and muggy afternoon on trail. The park is under partly skies to roll into this Sunday, so folks trekking into the woods on the early side today might be able to avoid any turbulent weather. Later this afternoon the chances for storms increase, as per usual. Temps will continue to hang around the 50s and 60s while winds over the crest will remain light. Looking ahead to the coming week…expect more wet.

Despite the persistent presence of rain the past month plus, the natural grounds of the lodge stand firm in putting on a grand show for all who achieve the climb. The coneflower, snakeroot, and monkshood are in full bloom and blend together in a complimentary fashion that is always pleasing to the eyes. Ragwort, krigia, and gentian are currently what line the trails higher up, cheering on hikers with each step. As anticipated, this will be an off year for the vivid red of the mountain ash berries after last autumn’s super crop. A couple more weeks of such displays are ahead before the fawns lose their spots and the seasons begin to change above 6,000 feet.

​Have a great end to the week.