June 17, 2020

Good Morning,

Summer has decided to a break apparently, as we’re looking at another day of unseasonably cool weather up top and down below. Perfect conditions for those who enjoy being outside without immediately dripping after spending time in the humid south...not ideal if your hope was to get quality sun bathing time. We’re heading into our third day of a low pressure system that has parked itself to the East bringing cool air with its counterclockwise rotation. As a result we’ve experienced much cooler temps, as seen by our 34° low on Monday and storms that have brought lengthy bouts of hail. Amazingly, we haven’t set a new record for latest snowfall atop Mt. LeConte, although the hail that piled up side made it look that way. The lodge should be in and out of the clouds again today, with temps unlikely to leave the 50s. Come ready with layers for keeping yourself warm and dry.

Not much has changed in the way of trail conditions. Alum Cave and Rainbow Falls are still your best bets for ascending the mountain without obstructions. NPS trail crews have begun clearing Bull Head, The Boulevard is passable, and Trillium Gap is open to the public on weekends. Brushy Mountain is inaccessible at this time because of issues with the road to Porters Creek. Whichever way you choose to hike, as always be safe and enjoy.