May 6, 2024

Good Morning,

Rinse and repeat when storms are the norm. As expected, yesterday’s tease of sunshine was short-lived, as rain-producing clouds wasted no time in forming over the Smokies’ higher elevations, unleashing as they tap danced from peak to peak throughout the afternoon. Expect similar ear-popping performances again today and throughout the coming week across East TN. Spotty showers and patchy clouds are present this morning, and although we could enjoy a break over these next few hours, more storms are forecast to flare up by mid afternoon. So it’s a good idea to get most of one’s miles underfoot before the skies get agitated…again. Temps are around 50° as pancakes and biscuits get served, and we might ease up near 60° later today once those famous no-bake cookies become the delectable treat of choice. Winds will be apparent, gusting up to 25mph at times.

By now it’s no mystery this week will bring a substantial amount of wet weather to the mountains, especially in this day and age of detailed and advanced forecasting. Still, it’s a bit mystifying how many hikers make the ascent completely unprepared and miserable, as though they’ve never owned a rain jacket, seen a forecast, or they come from a land that apparently has only ever been sunny their entire life. At least that’s the impression they give. Please don’t be that person…for your sake, ours, and those around you (the latter two being your potential rescuers). It’s been said before and it’ll be said again, there are numerous inherent risks to exploring the backcountry, coping with the weather often chief among them. Hikers are 100% responsible for the gear they choose or neglect to bring into the wilderness, which can have a significant impact on their safety and enjoyment. If there’s ice, you should always have traction devices. If there’s a heat wave, you should always have ample water and nourishment. If there’s rain, you should have waterproof layers for your core and extremities that will keep you dry and warm whether you are moving, standing, or sitting. And just because there is a lodge at the top of this mountain, using that as an excuse to skimp on gear is a dangerous game to play, and we’ve witnessed it backfire for unprepared visitors before. If an accident befalls you while on trail and miles from care, will the gear and provisions you have keep you dry, warm, and fed for hours (or possibly days) before help arrives? If you can say yes to all of those questions, then you are taking the correct steps in being a responsible hiker and increasing your odds at having a safe and enjoyable time in the woods. And don’t stop there, share this knowledge with others, as it could make all the difference for them and you.

Have a great day.