October 14, 2017

Good Morning,
     It's another gorgeous Saturday in October, so you know what that means...a busy day on the mountain!  The pots of hot chocolate are roaring and the popular "I Hiked It" shirts are flying out the door.  We have a wide selection in styles and colors remaining, but busy weekends can see some significant sell through, so the sooner you can make it up, the better your selection.  Our ability to restock this time of year, if necessary, depends on the llamas abilities to keep up with all of our vital supplies.
     We've been dancing in and out of the clouds this morning, with occasional views down into the valley, but that isn't stopping folks from hiking up to the lodge.  Yesterday's high temperature reached 65 degrees, followed by a low of 49.  Despite the ample amount of dew on the grass at dawn, there was no new precipitation.  These spotty clouds are keeping us in the upper 50's for the moment, but conditions remain quite comfortable.
     Just a reminder that we're expecting a dramatic temperature drop Sunday night through Monday compared to what we've been seeing.  There's also a chance of precipitation, and this time of year, it's entirely possible that could transpire into some little white flakes.  Initial reports are saying rain, but anything could happen above 6,000 feet.  If you anticipate visiting Mt. LeConte during that time frame, please pack and dress accordingly for the cold and wet.  If you're someone coming up on a dayhike, please keep in mind the rapidly decreasing hours of daylight.  Sunset is at 7:00 PM now, and can catch hikers off guard who make it up here in the middle of the afternoon.  It's important to us that all visitors can come to and depart from the mountain safely and comfortably.
​     Have a wonderful weekend.