November 24th, 2018

Good morning,

It’s currently 34 degrees and cloudy with high winds. We received 1.2” inches of precipitation. If you plan on hiking up, expect slushy conditions with limited views.

24 hour temperature range: High 34 Low 27

*US Hwy 441/Newfound Gap Rd from Gatlinburg TN to Cherokee NC is temporarily closed due to high winds.

*Cherokee Orchard is road is temporarily closed at the park boundary due to downed trees.

Stay up to date on road conditions here: https://goo.gl/HikrMr

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Howling across the ridge, the winds pounded the sides of my warm lofted cabin. The entire structure began wobbling in the assault. Like an unborn child, I was comfortably insulated from the madness of the outside world. Too warm for snow, I listened as the sleet began tapping on the shake shingles. The combination of rain and wind lulled me to sleep.
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Standing on the dining room porch, I savored the warmth escaping from my black cup of coffee. There is something beautiful about the damp wind burdened landscape. The dynamic mood of the mountain transports me to a different realm. I lose a sense of time and space. A strong gust brings me back. My cold coffee looks up at me with a blank stare. How long have I been standing here? I’m unsure.

I slowly make my way back toward the glow of a warmer place.

Onward,
Seth​

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There is no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.

John Ruskin