March 29, 2022

Good Morning,

It’s a calm and partly cloudy mountain top to start this Tuesday. And it might just be the most pleasant that conditions will be around the lodge over the next 72 hours. As wind directions start to shift counterclockwise, we’re also going to see a big jump in temperatures. The lodge could tap 50° today, and then 60° Wednesday, a welcome change from the seemingly never-ending deep freeze we’ve been enduring of late. What’s expected along with it is less than encouraging.

A High Wind Watch has been posted from noon Wednesday to 8:00 AM Thursday. Sustained winds of 35-45mph with gusts of 65mph during the day, followed by sustained winds of 60-65mph and gusts of 95mph during the night. At some point after there should be an arrival of rain showers. We’ve received no indication from the Park about possible road or trail closures in advance of the rough weather. But given the forecast’s similarity to Tropical Storm conditions, it would be no surprise if they did.

Guests with reservations for Wednesday should hit the trail as early as possible that morning to get out in front of the worsening winds and coming rains. As long as US 441 remains open, Alum Cave presents the shortest and quickest path up the mountain. If Cherokee Orchard has to be utilized as a plan B, then travelers are advised to use Rainbow Falls. Definitely not Bull Head because of its current hazards and exposure, or Trillium Gap due its length while the Roaring Fork is closed. If you are someone with an upcoming reservation in need of further guidance, please contact our awesome reservations staff who will provide helpful tips and up to date info.

Have a great day.