May 27, 2020

Good Afternoon,

These persistent clouds are having their way with the data connection up here...something many folks rightfully come to Mt. LeConte to escape, although a point of exasperation when needing to connect with the outside world. As of this afternoon’s latest rain shower, we are now on 11 days straight of receiving liquid precip. May has been a wet month in recent years, raining 17/31 days in 2017, 16/31 in 2018, while today marks 18 this year with 4 days to go. This may not end up being a Mt. LeConte record for the amount of rain in May (each of the years mentioned came in around 9”), but in terms of daily continuity this has to be up there with the rarities.

The lodge is mostly socked in, with light winds and temps stabilizing in the lower 50s. We tallied near a quarter inch of rain yesterday. Not expecting things to change much until early next week, so keep bringing those rain shells.

Even in these strange and rainy times, there are still so many great ways to enjoy the Mt. LeConte experience. Salamanders and Snails tend to come out of their typical hiding places even more in these conditions, a great activity if you’re up here with children. Need some tips on how and where to find them? Ask one of our crew members or an NPS Ranger if you meet one on the trail.

And so many guests have been taking advantage of the countless other ways to meet and socialize safely. Whether on the trail, chatting across cabin porches, in passing around camp, or sharing large rock faces for seats at sunset, there are so many great ways for fellow hikers and guests to bond and share their appreciation for life in the outdoors. And our crew enjoys meeting new visitors more than ever, so be sure and introduce yourself when buying this season’s “I Hiked It” shirt.

Stay dry, stay safe, and have a great rest of the day.