Nov. 7, 2013

Courtney enjoys sunset at Cliff Tops a few years ago.

Good afternoon to all of you.  This is Nathan, and I'll be filling in for Allyson while she enjoys her November off days.  It's been a while since I've been behind the High on LeConte keyboard, so I'll try to knock off the rust.  As the season wanes, I'd like to try to introduce you to the remainder of the crew.  Courtney Tucker Belmont takes center stage today.

However, I'll provide a weather update first.  The clouds insulated us Wednesday, leading to only a three-degree range of temperatures.  Wednesday's high was 45 with an overnight low of 42.  We tallied 0.45 inches of rain overnight.  I'm glad it stayed mild overnight so the snow shovels can continue their slumber.

Thursday morning was marked by rain and clouds.  However, those gray conditions have given way to mostly sunny skies after lunch.  The temperature has been dropping all day.  Plan on some chilly temperatures for the foreseeable future if you're coming up to see us.  On a positive note, the forecast through the weekend sounds promising, albeit cold. Also, keep in mind that any melted water on the trail is likely to refreeze overnight, so keep an eye on your footing.

Now, I'll turn the introduction over to Courtney, who is finishing her first season on the LeConte Lodge crew.

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When I was growing up Mt. LeConte was an ever present backdrop in my life.  My family has called these mountains home for eight generations.  As a child, I would visit the graves of my ancestors who quietly rest in the small family cemeteries of Greenbrier, Webbs Creek and Pittman Center.

I attended Pittman Center Elementary and Gatlinburg-Pittman High School during my youth and continued my education in East Tennessee at East Tennessee State University, Carson-Newman College and Tusculum College, earning a bachelor's and master's degree in business.

After completing my education I got that "wild hair" that I think most young adults get to go do something, somewhere...anywhere...other than "home."  So, I traveled west to Colorado and managed a luxury dude ranch for two years followed by a two-year management experience in Belize on the exquisite Turneffe Atoll. 

After spending another year traveling and working in Oregon and Idaho I found myself yearning for "home."  Sometimes it takes a little while for you to truly appreciate who you are and where you are rooted.  Now I live on Mt. LeConte as a crew member along with my husband, Beau.  I look down onto the little valley of Emerts Cove in Pittman Center that I call home, and I realize how fortunate I am to call the Great Smoky Mountains home.

Sometimes just a change in perspective is all you need...

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Thanks to Courtney for penning her profile.  Bundle up and come see us this weekend.  Happy trails.

Courtney and her husband, Beau, on Porters Creek Trail near Greenbrier in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.