May 17, 2020

Snow and mowed grass in the same week.

Good Afternoon,

It’s another gorgeous day high above Tennessee. We’re enjoying a balanced mix of sun and clouds with favorable temps for being outside. Saturday’s high topped out at 61° and our overnight low stayed in the upper 40s. We’re back in the 60s again with light winds.

Tomorrow is calling for the return of rain, which could linger throughout much of the week. A cool down is also expected, so despite what conditions one is experiencing in the lowlands, it’d be wise for our first week of guests to come ready with a rain shell and an extra warm layer.

​Rainbow Falls has been cleared of debris offering smooth passage for hikers. Bull Head still has numerous obstructions. The Trails Forever project resumes its work this coming week, so even with Roaring Fork closed, hikers attempting Trillium Gap will not have access beyond Grotto Falls on Monday’s through Thursday’s. The Boulevard is open. Alum Cave remains closed.

Visitors will be able to enjoy seeing our llamas from a viewing area that encourages safe social distancing.

Well, tomorrow is the day we’ve all been anxiously waiting for. Beginning at NOON Monday our doors will open to overnight guests with reservations and afternoon day hikers. The crew is excited to welcome back visitors who share an appreciation for this special mountain top. You can count on our team to give you the best possible experience, even as we work through these COVID-19 related challenges.

The visitor experience will look different at first, especially as we work through a phased reopening process. This process is geared heavily towards visitor and employee safety, with every intention of returning to a more typical lodge experience. Since the situation surrounding COVID-19 is constantly changing, there is no set timeline for the longevity of the different phases. The lodge will continue to lean on guidance from the NPS, CDC, and public health officials as it moves through the reopening process, while maintaining our commitment to visitor and employee health and safety.

Great weather and a great game for social distancing after a day’s work.

Here are a few quick points to help you plan for a trip to the lodge in the near future...

​*Day hikers can purchase Sack Lunches and Baked Goods from our Dining Hall, or snacks from our Gift Shop, during the hours of 12:00-5:00 daily. Beverages will not be available at this time.
*Interested in buying this year’s shirt? Know your typical Gildan cotton shirt size before visiting, as customers will not be able to handle any merchandise until they have completed their purchase.
*To ensure that every visitor receives an equal opportunity to make a purchase, while adhering to current occupancy limitations, there is no inside dining for day hikers at this time. Outside picnic tables are available and separated to encourage safe social distancing.
*At this time, overnight guests can expect to be served their meals at their respective cabins. Overnight guests will still have access to beverages from 12:00-5:00, but not during meal services. Morning coffee will be available from 7:30-8:00 only. All wine purchases MUST occur before 5:00.