March 31, 2023

UPDATE:

GSMNP will be temporarily closing US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) at 5:00 PM in conjunction with the High Wind Warning for this evening and Saturday. The main road will likely remain closed for the duration. Guests with reservations at the lodge should adjust their plans accordingly. Cherokee Orchard Rd and its trails remains accessible to the public at this time.

Good Morning,

The forecast for this weekend sure is making for some deja vu. Once again the Smokies are looking at strong winds out of the south, bringing warm air and chances for thunderstorms Friday into early Saturday. Fitting for this edition of March to go out with a roar. Currently a High Wind Warning is set to begin at 6:00 PM this evening and last until 11:00 PM Saturday night. At their peak strength tonight, sustained winds will be around 50mph with gusts of 80mph possible. They’ll be just as strong on Saturday, so don’t be surprised if GSMNP opts to temporarily close US 441 through the park until conditions improve and roads are assessed. And because these mighty winds will be out of the south, that means trails on the mountain’s northern side, like Rainbow Falls, will be better shielded from the breezy battering. Right now the precip amounts are low, but a storm could flare up and hit the summit just right with the sudden influx of warm air and moisture. Anyone looking to tackle the mountain today should take care of business early, as it’s already getting blustery up here. If you have a reservation this weekend, better load up on that protective gear for staying dry and warm from head to toe.

Have a great day.