June 18, 2024

Good Morning,

Aside from a few patchy clouds straddling the park’s upper elevations, we should have an otherwise mostly sunny day ahead of us. There is an ever-so-slight chance for a rain shower this afternoon, but not something that should derail anyone’s plans for a day out on the trail. Occasional storms hit their marks yesterday, as was expected, but now that’s behind us and hot, humid, and hazy days are lining up. High temps near 70° are called for this afternoon and in the coming days with overnight lows unlikely to escape the upper 50s.

Current temps and humidity really make that air feel heavy on the lungs for anyone not used to exerting themselves in such conditions. That’s why making the ascent earlier in the day is beneficial. Avoiding as much uphill climbing during the heat of the afternoon is best, whereas going downhill while temps are at their hottest transfers the burden away from a more labored breathing for some. Although one’s knees might have something to say about it. Who knows, perhaps a quick dip in one of the many creeks flowing down the mountain sounds appealing for a relief from the heat. Either way, please take these conditions seriously if considering any kind of strenuous outdoor activity.

Have a great day.