January 29, 2021

1/29/2021

Good morning folks,

It’s another fine morning up top. Crystal clear skies with every star in the universe out saying good morning. Yesterday, it was a bitter cold day with the high only reaching 19 degrees. The overnight low dipped down to 6 degrees. It’s currently 15 degrees with light winds. The snow depth stands around 5”. Traction is definitely needed to reach the summit. Today is forecasted to be sunny with a bit warmer than what we felt yesterday. Pack your best puffy and extra layers. Have a great day!

Moonlight covers the evening sky. Reflecting from the bright white snow the lodge illuminated like a spotlight at a Broadway show. Fir trees creek from heavy rime ice coating their branches as I open my cabin door. The mountain is silent other than me stirring around. Kettle hot, I pour the first mornings cup and sit and listen to the wind. Very peaceful! Sun is rising so I’m off to catch a glimpse of the predawn show. See you at the top!

PNUT

Mountains! Think of them; speak of them; look upon them!... Here they are in all their majesty and abundance! -ISAIAH KEPHART-

LeConte Backcountry Shelter

5 Comments

Connie Parnell Beverly

1/29/2021 08:07:27 am

I look forward to reading this everyday. Thanks so much.

Renee Ryan

1/29/2021 10:11:50 am

Love the photos! Are you able to use the fireplace in the shelter?

Kenneth Moses

1/29/2021 12:24:24 pm

Thanks for your blog with pictures. I enjoying seeing them everyday. I was once and avid hiker and made my way up to LeConte several times for some great memories. Health problems prevent me from hiking now. Your blog allows me to visit every day.
Thanks again.
P.S. Do you actually get paid to do this? haha

chrissy couch

1/29/2021 08:10:06 pm

I hiked Alum Cave to the Lodge last week for the first time. I live in Florida on Mexico Beach, so it was my first time in snow...EVER! I have been coming to Gatlinburg for couple years now and love to hike the trails and horseback. I love your blog and I wish I was you LOL!! I will make the hike to the lodge in season and get me an :I hiked it" shirt.

Walt Lambeth

1/30/2021 10:45:53 am

First hiked Rainbow Falls Trail and spent a night at the Lodge in late 60’s - back in the days when wood fires were allowed in the cabins and there were no running water toilets. Have hiked all trails, and spent many nights since with all my family and many friends. Once hiked up Alum Cave trail to chimney tops in an hour and 40 minutes. Haven’t been to Lodge in many years now but my goal is to hike up one more time. It will be an effort for me at 82 but hoping to make it this year. In meantime I’ll keep reading your daily reports and enjoying your wonderful photographs. You live in a truly magical place; thanks for sharing your pictures and descriptions.

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January 29, 2021

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