October 31, 2020

Good Morning,

Happy Halloween and conclusion to what has been an epic October in these mountains! Ever since the storm rolled through, it seems to have abruptly ushered in winter without a gradual transition. It’s another frosty morning up top with a few more expected every day this weekend. Skies are bright and clear, and save for a slight precip chance tomorrow, the next week should be cool and gorgeous. A few pointers in advance of these final few weeks of the season...

*The time change occurs tonight, so remember to set your watches back/alarms forward if your hike is tomorrow.

*Hikers hitting the trailhead early will now enjoy more daylight at the start. The flip side to that coin is skies will get darker an hour sooner. It is absolutely crucial that day hikers know when to leave the lodge and allow themselves adequate daylight to get down the mountain. The average hiker takes 3-4 hours to descend the mountain, so most visitors should be leaving the lodge by 2:00 PM to beat the dark and the cold.

*Speaking of the cold, it is all day hikers’ responsibility to come dressed appropriately for the climate conditions. That means during your hike and the entire time spent atop the mountain. Our COVID-19 safety protocols remain in place, which means all indoor food and merchandise services are sold as “to-go.” So no crowding around space heaters for unprepared hikers. Once you’ve arrived at the lodge, your body will begin to cool down, especially if it’s windy or rainy. If you don’t already have the layers to keep yourself dry and warm while pausing your physical activity, your time up top will be far less enjoyable.

*With the time change, guest supper will be taking place AFTER sunset the remainder of the season. Starting tomorrow evening, guest supper will be served at 6:15 PM. Overnight guests should not wait that late to arrive, as it will be dark well before then. Breakfast is still served at 8:00 AM.