December 24th, 2018

Good morning,

It’s currently 12 degrees and clear up top. We received .2” inches of precipitation and trace amounts of new snow last night, but the top of the mountain still has a foot of snow. These cold temperatures have left the mountain icy in spots with no snow. Plan for longer travel times if you are attempting to hike up today.

24 hour temperature range | High: 35 Low: 12

*US Hwy 441/Newfound Gap Rd from Gatlinburg TN to Cherokee NC is temporarily closed due to snow/ice.

Talk on the radio is saying around Noon for the road (Hwy 441) to open. This isn’t 100% accurate - could be before; could be later.

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The frigid temperatures gave the mountain a satisfying crunch. I traveled merrily toward a gurgling cauldron of inverted clouds. Standing on the overlook, I watched as pumpkin tones burst free from the horizon. The sun pushed closer toward the heavens, softening the deep pre-dawn brush strokes. Grapefruit hues reflected off a cloud high in the sky. I closed my eyes - the cold bite of winter reminded me that I wasn’t dreaming.

Looking over my shoulder, a nearly full moon rest on the tree tops. My smile deepened as thoughts drifted between sunrise, the moon, and ski season in Tennessee.

Onward,
Seth

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“Today is the only day. Yesterday is gone.”  - John Wooden