September 4, 2024

Good Morning,

The clouds really held their own yesterday, and despite a few faint threats of rain, any new precip managed to steer clear of the summit just as much as the sun did. Perhaps we’ll get to enjoy fairer skies today above 6,000’ and witness travelers being rewarded with grand views from the top. The atmosphere will be a mix of sun and clouds across the region, with temps at our elevation ranging from 50-60° mostly. Winds will be light over the crest and will warrant that extra layer after an idle body cool down. Expect conditions to be just like this leading into the weekend.

It’s interesting to note how vegetation in the Smokies can “behave” year to year when speaking in terms of growth and floral/fruit output. For example, the rhododendron along the slopes of Mt. LeConte were mostly ho-hum this spring, likely recovering due in part to a super bloom last year that was followed up by a drought. The opposite seems to be the case for the fruit and nut bearing trees. A not-so-stellar mast crop last year is being made up for by mountain ash berries, blackberries, blueberries, acorns, and buckeyes appearing everywhere. In some places the miniature fallen orbs have piled so thick one might just roll an ankle if not careful when taking a step. Given how active the bears and squirrels have been this year, surely this means they’ll be naturally well fed after some bountiful foraging going into winter.

​Have a great day.

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