November 23, 2023

Good Morning and Happy Thanksgiving!

We have much to be thankful for this fine morning on the mountain. Between the chaotic weather and our annual shutting down of the lodge for winter, it was an exciting finish. Over the past few days Mt. LeConte has had to endure sunshine and warmth, clouds and hurricane-force winds, rain, sleet, snow, and sub-freezing temps. All made for an interesting sendoff of this season’s final guests and of course our crew, who were all grateful to find roads open and trails clear in time for making a safe descent.

About the time the final deadbolt was thrown and the last drain unplugged, yesterday’s nagging mist eventually transitioned to flurries. The flakes that fell were certainly on the wet side, but the thermometer dipped low enough that accumulation began to form on the ground and trees at the lodge all the way down to about 5,000’ in elevation. Odds are that the warm earth and recent rains have helped to keep trails clear of snow and ice, but conditions can still be quite slick with lingering wet surfaces. It’s life above a cloud sea this morning, and the rising sun is sure to help us warm up and dry out in time for the holiday. Clouds may thicken over the peaks later today, but the next few days are looking ripe for fun outdoor exploration. Temps are expected to range from 30s to 40s.

Just remember that now the lodge is closed, there are absolutely zero services available to visitors until late March 2024. Caretakers maintain the pit privies at the far west end of camp daily, but there is no indoor shelter, no water from spigots, no snacks, and no shirts to buy. Hikers during the winter off-season are 100% responsible for researching forecast conditions, coming prepared with the proper gear and provisions, and assuming all risks of which there are inherently more between now and next spring.

We’d like to take this moment to give thanks to everyone who contributed to another successful season. There are so many wonderful people who put in hard work both on the front lines and behind the scenes to make this rustic experience as unique and memorable as it is. If you were someone who managed to spend a night with us this season or even just came up on an afternoon ramble, then you got a chance to witness how special a crew we had this season. From our on-site staff who clean the beds, sell the merchandise, and cook the meals, to the daily grinders who lead our beloved llamas up and down with provisions and tend to their every need when out to pasture, as well as our fine administrative staff and reservationists with Stokely Hospitality Enteprises, we are blessed to have so many caring and committed people among our ranks year after year.

And most importantly, thank you to our dear patrons and wilderness lodging enthusiasts for taking the time to pay us a visit this year or follow along virtually. Meeting new people and welcoming back those who’ve visited before really sets this experience high above the Smokies apart from the rest. It was our sincere pleasure to host you this 99th season in lodge history, and we are most excited about seeing what grand season number 100 has in store.

From our team to your family and friends, have a safe and prosperous holiday season!