June 12, 2022

Good Morning,

We’re officially 1/3 of the way through the 2022 season and barely a week and a half away from the longest day of the year. Whose ready for summer in the Smokies? By most accounts it has already arrived. Most schools are out of session and the families are traveling. Starting this afternoon we’ll be kicking off a new streak of much warmer temps on the mountain to go with that haze diminishing the long distance views. Talking upper 60s and lower 70s up top compared to the heavy and muggy 90s down below. And as the heat rises and clouds build throughout the day, we’ll be subject to that late afternoon/supper time thunderstorm that frequently unloads on the lodge this time of year. More often than not when it does turn out that way, guests are often treated to a vivid Rainbow over High Top a couple hours before a stunning sunset. Other than that, expect skies to be a solid mix of sun and clouds today with light winds.

Heads up this week for travelers coming and going from the park. The NPS will be conducting maintenance along the The Spur between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, meaning single lane closures and brief traffic delays. So plan your routes accordingly Monday through Thursday if you want to avoid some congestion.

Have a great day.