June 3, 2023

Good Morning,

To no surprise, the mountain was a beehive of activity yesterday. The trails were lined with people from top to bottom, early and often. And with stellar weather on tap again today, we figure on seeing more of the same. Count on trailhead parking spaces filling up early and roads in and out of the area being thoroughly congested. Skies should bring plenty of sunshine at least thru the afternoon. Clouds could form later on and might just squeak out a laugher of a rain shower, otherwise conditions for time in the woods today will be pleasant. High temps at the lodge will climb into the upper 60s. The weather for Sunday will start nice but the possibility of storms in the afternoon will be much greater. Have the rain gear handy just in case.

Sometimes you round a corner and almost come nose to nose with a beautiful black bear. Fret not, as many of those found in the Smokies have no interest in people, so long as all visitors behave responsibly around wildlife. This bear, seen a mile down Alum Cave, had only foraging on its mind. Remember, this is their home, and they live just fine on what comes naturally in these mountains…nuts, berries, and bugs. Feeding them human food or leaving backpacks unattended are poor decisions that can be detrimental to a bear in the end. Be sure and visit the NPS website for helpful informative tips about what to do when coming upon a black bear.

​Have a great weekend.