October 20, 2023

Good Morning,

Today is calling for some much needed rain in the mountains. Already during the night and early this morning several rain bands have swept through the region, and although there is a break in the action, more precip is expected later this afternoon and evening. The thermometer will be tiptoeing a fine line late tonight, and we’ll just have to wait and see if any of this rain transitions to flurries again. Just about all the snow is gone from the summit now, so trails will be thoroughly saturated from the remaining snow melt combined with recent rainfall. Despite temps hovering above the freezing mark, it is going to feel quite chilly up top this weekend due to the windchill factor. Gusts of 40mph are possible over the crest these next 48 hours, so added layers for staying dry and warm are an absolute must.

The fall colors are bursting throughout the middle elevations of the park now, and as today could be a quiet one on the trails, Saturday is calling for abundant sunshine. Everyone with plans of spending time in the Smokies should come prepared for what very well might be the busiest day of the entire year thus far. That means traffic standstills, long lines, and dense crowds at the park’s many popular spots and points of entry. Alum Cave, Newfound Gap, Cherokee Orchard, Roaring Fork, and the lodge most certainly included!

Reminder to all who secured reservations for the 2024 season during our booking period earlier this month. Payment in full is due by November 1st using credit card by phone or mailing a check. There is no online payment option at this time. Beginning November 1st, phone lines will undoubtedly be tied up by those hoping to jump in on a recent cancellation. If you have a 2024 reservation and are yet to pay, please do not delay in contacting our office before November 1st, our hours being Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. Waitlists for dates next season won’t go live until the coming New Year.

Have a great day.