 Going nowhere … isn’t about turning your back on the world; it’s about stepping away now and then so that you can see the world more clearly and love it more deeply. Pico Iyer Morning y'all, It's another gorgeous morning up top! The high yesterday reached a ridiculous 54 degrees and the low was 31 degrees. It was 43 degrees and clear at 7am observation. The mountain is above the clouds, yet again. The mountain received no new precipitation and there is still about an inch of snow remaining up top. The trails are quite slick, so be sure to pack some sort of traction if you intend to hike on past Alum Cave.  Top photo, above: I can't even. I had a fantastic hike up Alum yesterday afternoon. My friend and I lingered in Alum Cave, soaking in the unseasonably warm temperatures. I thought we might need sunscreen. We lingered long, until there was only about an hour of day light with which to make it up to sunset. It was spectacular - the mountain is full of surprises. The perfect slanty golden evening light was otherwordly. We reached the old horse gate right when the sun was setting and discovered that we were still (somehow!) above the clouds. We could not help but laugh at how fortunate we were. The ravens were laughing, too.
In other news, the Mt. LeConte shelter will be closed for the time being. There has been some bear activity and the wildlife department will be monitoring the situation. For current backcountry trail and campsite information, visit the Park Service's website or please call (865) 436-1297
Kent
12/15/2014 02:58:53 am
Another great cloud inversion illusion. I really am looking out over the South Pacific from some high point on a deserted, uncharted island. : )
Jw
12/15/2014 03:08:11 am
GREAT visit to the lodge on Saturday, and finally meeting the elusive JP, and talking , it was a pleasure, and meeting your friend also! i got a great shot of you two reading at Cabin #5 if you could get me an email ill send it to you! Once again thanks! and we will continue to enjoy you and your home for now!!
JP
12/15/2014 03:12:07 am
Jw,
BT
12/15/2014 03:09:33 am
Fantastic photos JP as usual.....I've heard of the old horse gate at the top of Alum Cave Trail....could anyone shed any light on exactly where it is located?
BT
12/15/2014 06:29:19 am
Thanks for the post Kent....tried the arrow but just rec'd the page that indicates Internet Explorer wouldn't allow that page
BT
12/15/2014 06:34:57 am
Kent....googled for the location and found what is likely the map you referenced...many thanks
Barbara
12/15/2014 08:47:22 am
Kent. The little arrow by your name doesn't work. Neither did R. Singleton's. Jarrett's was the only one that did work. Will google Alum Cave map. Thanks anyway
Kent
12/15/2014 09:00:56 am
Here's the web address for anyone interested: 12/15/2014 03:32:29 am
may not be a good idea to leave food outside for JP. bears have a great sense of smell.
DannyH in Cleveland, Tn
12/15/2014 02:20:55 pm
Bears should be hibernating now I would think.
Steve
12/15/2014 11:22:45 pm
Bears in the Smokies don't typically hibernate as you may think
Mike
12/16/2014 12:09:11 am
planning on hiking to LeConte in next few days. Could someone recommend a good traction device for boots that will hold up under conditions above Alum Cave
Paul B
12/16/2014 12:29:49 am
Kahtoola Microspikes have been recommended. Given the icy conditions I think they would be better than the coil type Yak Traks Comments are closed.
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LeConte LodgeWelcome to the official blog of LeConte Lodge. We hope you find the information provided here both helpful and enjoyable. Thank you for visiting the site, and we hope to see you on the mountain! Archives
April 2025
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