January 11, 2022

Good morning folks,

Its another fine morning on the mountain. The skies are clear for all to wonder. Twinkling stars above say good morning to all. I admire the stars above! The high temperature yesterday only reached 20 degrees. The overnight low dropped down to a bone chilling 5 degrees. It is currently 11 degrees with light winds passing through camp. Looks to be another great day on the mountain. US highway 441 (Newfound Gap road) is open. Cherokee Orchard is finally open. with it being closed for over a week now from recent winter storm the Rainbow Falls, Trillium gap and Bullhead trails are now accessible. Crampons (micro-spikes) are a must to reach the summit. Sun returns today and much of the week. Pack those layers it’s chilly up top. Have a good one folks.

Yesterday was a much needed town run for some lunch and a few supplies. Pizza was cooked to perfection. Crispy crust is the ticket. It was even better that I didn’t have to cook a meal for myself. With the road opened, it didn’t take long for visitors to start making their accent up the mountain. It was a great hike back to LeConte. Meandering up the trail I enjoyed the sun and the Firs. The colors set a beautiful backdrop for all of us to enjoy. Tangerine skies with deep hues with mountain peaks as far as the eye can see. I take a deep breath and feel the strength of the mountain. It is gentle and strong. I admire. SEE YOU AT THE TOP

​PNUT