February 19, 2021

Good morning folks,

It’s a great morning here on LeConte. Light snow is falling in camp with the sunlight coming in and out over High Top. The high yesterday reached 37 degrees. The overnight low only dropped down to 23 degrees. It’s currently 23 degrees with calm winds. We received 0.03” of precipitation and 0” of new snow. We have trace amounts of snow in camp. Traction is needed in some areas with the recent freeze thaw cycle. Many tributaries are swollen, roaring down the mountain so prepare for some wet trails. US. Hwy 441 remains closed for snow/ice. Cherokee Orchard remains open with Rainbow Falls and Bullhead trails awaiting your arrival. Looking ahead into the forecast. It’s going to be a great weekend to be out on trails with abundant sunshine and a bit warmer temperatures. What are you waiting for come up top and enjoy the sunshine! Have a good day folks.

Last nights hike up Alum started right before dark. Not needing a headlamp until Arch Rock the hike up was warm and misty with heavy fog. Noticing recent work from NPS Trail Crew on the foot log projects. The crossing at Styx Branch is complete and they have moved down to the foot log below Arch Rock. The foot log at Arch Rock is across the creek but the old one still remains set until next week when they roll the new log into its spot. Moving up the mountain my pack was loaded with 33.2 pounds of food and supplies needed for the last stint up top. Walking into camp at 9:30pm I was glad to see the warm kitchen. I made a mad dash inside to warm some leftover crawfish pie. Thanks Janice! I retired to my cabin. All is well. See you at the top!

PNUT