July 11, 2017

Good Afternoon,
     We're soaking up as much of the sunshine as we can while we've got it.  It's been a most enjoyable Tuesday on the mountain, with warm temperatures tapping 70 degrees already.  For the first time all month, yesterday witnessed no new liquid precipitation.

     In anticipation of stormier days ahead, it was important to amble out of camp for just a little bit to enjoy some of the sunny goodness.  Myrtle Point did not disappoint.  This has definitely been one of the most impressive years for the Dwarf Rhododendron I can recall, as the displays around the mountain have been grand and long lasting. One can certainly enjoy them a little longer before they wilt or get weather beaten, whichever comes first.
     While admiring the views from LeConte's famous peak to the east, the low hum of a helicopter was audible, seemingly emanating from the south.  Once the old in-skull optics adjusted to peering through today's slight haze, I was able to pick out a small helicopter hauling materials back and forth from the direction of Indian Gap and close to the summit of Chimney Tops.  One could speculate that these materials are crucial to the Park's proposed plan of constructing a viewing platform close the popular peaks, but from a safe and stable distance away as a result of the November fire's devastation.  We'll continue to wait patiently on their progress to reopen such trails as The Chimneys, Road Prong, and Sugarland Mountain across the way, and most certainly our very own Bull Head Trail. Please respect these closures if you're visiting the Smokies.
     Enjoy the rest of your day, wherever you may be!