 Good morning, It’s currently 26 degrees and socked-in (cloudy) up top. We received trace amounts of precipitation. What started as sleet has now become a steady snow. 24 hour temperature range: High 30 Low 23 *US Hwy 441/Newfound Gap Rd from Gatlinburg TN to Cherokee NC is closed due to snow/ice. Stay up to date on road conditions here: https://goo.gl/HikrMr -- Mt. Le Conte sits stoically in the morning twilight, remaining indifferent to the local forecast. A steady rhythm of sleet taps the shoulder of my down parka as I saunter up the trail. A concerned field mouse scurries through the underbrush, making preparations for what is to come. I nod, endorsing his decision. My mind drifts toward the coming storm - am I prepared? An image of fresh baked oatmeal raisin cookies fills my vision. I dwell on the scene until a loaf of flavorful sourdough gains traction. I quietly revel the notion of bakes goods. From Apollo Overlook, I wait patiently for any sign of sunrise. An exercise in discipline, I appreciate the benefits that come from the daily trek to sunrise. On days like today, it is less about the sun rising and more about my willingness to show up, regardless of the outcomes. Taking a deep breath, I close my eyes and listen to what the mountain has to say. The gentle tap of sleet has stopped. The world is silent… Fresh snow begins to fill the creases in my parka. Onward.  “Don’t expect to be motivated every day to get out there and make things happen. You won’t be. Don’t count on motivation. Count on Discipline.”
Jocko Willink
8 Comments
Bonnie
12/8/2018 10:21:32 am
There's a lot in your post and lantern quote today that I can use. Thank you Seth. Enjoy the snow. I have wonderful memories of spending the night up top with my husband following the monster storm of 2012.
Christopher Bell
12/8/2018 01:36:44 pm
Your eloquent descriptions of the mountain bring back wonderful memories of many treks to the lodge and shelter. I have been in all seasons and on all the trails, and each has something unique to offer. I am envious of your solitude and surrounding beauty. I look forward to your daily observations. Many thanks.
Jean
12/8/2018 02:11:44 pm
I love the pictures of the lit kerosene lanterns. They look so cozy. When I was growing up and my family had a cabin in Gatlinburg and then later one on Norris Lake, we used kerosene lanterns as the only light after dark Our family opted not to pay for electricity at either cabin. It was so much fun. I collect kerosene lanterns now because I liked the atmosphere so much back then. They are in every room of my home. 30 plus - some of them look like the ones in today's picture.
IAN JACOB LAMBERSON
12/8/2018 03:51:26 pm
I was looking at making the trek tomorrow at Monday. Will their be anywhere to get water at the top?
Rob
12/8/2018 05:45:27 pm
Thank you for your wonderful pictures and writing! I'm enjoying following your winter adventure.
Roger Sawyer
12/8/2018 06:40:38 pm
Very well written!
James Rogers
12/8/2018 10:02:52 pm
stay safe and warm on the mountain tonight. Hope all goes well. Can't wait to see pictures in the morning.
Yaya
12/9/2018 01:15:20 am
I can smell the aroma of the bread baking now- Hot tea and peach jam. Fitting preparation for a winter wonderland. Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
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LeConte LodgeWelcome to the official blog of LeConte Lodge. We hope you find the information provided here both helpful and enjoyable. Thank you for visiting the site, and we hope to see you on the mountain! Archives
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