March 08th, 2016

The one thing of value in the universe is the active soul. Emerson

Morning y'all,

It's a beautiful, clear morning up top. The high yesterday reached 49 degrees. The overnight low was 37 degrees. It was 44 degrees and clear at 7am observation. The mountain received no new snow or precipitation and there is only an inch of snow remaining up top. I would still recommend some traction devices if you intend to reach the summit. Get out and enjoy this beautiful day!

It is hard to believe that I am hiking down the mountain for good on Thursday... but all good things must come to an end. I will be heading up to New Hampshire to caretake at the AMC's lovely Carter Notch Hut for the Spring. After that, my friend Billy and I are embarking on a cross country road trip and hiking adventure - the Triple Gem. We will be starting Vermont's Long Trail on June 16th. Once we complete the Long Trail, we will drive out to Denver and start the Colorado trail. Following the Colorado trail, we will be driving out to Yosemite and embarking on the John Muir trail. We hope to finish up around mid-August. If you are inclined, you are welcome to follow our adventure on my personal Instagram page @walasiyi_jp... In addition to this exciting news, I was fortunate enough to work with the wonderful folks at the Great Smoky Mountains Association this winter. They will be publishing an article I wrote about wintering over on LeConte. It will feature photos from the always impressive Gary Wilson. It should be out in the September issue of Smokies Life. Thanks again to Steve Kemp and Gary - it was a pleasure collaborating with you two!