March 20, 2023

Good Morning,

Today marks day one of the 2023 season! The crew is looking forward to welcoming the first night’s guests. Operations begin at noon today when we open our gift shop. As it stands, service hours will start out similarly to last season, but be aware that the new changes to the Smokies’ parking regulations could have an effect on traffic patterns at the lodge; thus modifications to visitor service hours. The gift shop will be open from 12:00-4:30 PM this afternoon then begin including morning hours tomorrow from 8:30-9:30 AM. Beverages for overnight guests will be available from 2:00-5:00 PM, after supper, then coffee an hour before breakfast. Guest supper will be served at 6:00 PM and breakfast at 8:00 AM. Checkout is still 9:30 AM.

The frigid temps continue this morning after experiencing a low of 1°. There is patchy snow around the mountain top and trails will definitely be icy a few more days. Traction devices and extra warm layers are a must for ensuring safe passage. Thankfully we’ll get to enjoy sunny skies today. And a spring heat wave appears to be coming later this week. Talking highs near 60° at the lodge in a few days! What a change that will be after what we’ve endured the last week.

Have a great day.