Good Morning,

Day by day, the rain seems to keep finding its way to the peaks, slopes, and drainages of mighty Mt. LeConte. So much so, that yesterday anyone who frequents the trails might have forgotten what they look like when they turn into a river. The perils of such arid conditions to start this summer. Wet boots were basically an unavoidable reality to those folks intent on trekking up or down Friday, and Saturday is simply continuing that experience. Spotty showers dot the region this morning, and are likely to transform into isolated storms this afternoon. Temps will be mild, ranging from mid 50s to lower 60s. Protective gear for keeping one dry will go a long way in improving the enjoyment of gallivanting through the forest today and tomorrow.

Despite the forecast, at least we don’t have to worry about any tech outages here. That’s the major allure of cutting out a sliver of time to spend at the Lodge…to unplug and cast out the stress and handcuffing that technology of the civilized world can impose. Instead, shut off those screens, silence those relentless emails, and come be mystified by the beauty and impressed by the forces of nature in this one-of-a-kind national park.

Have a great day.

Good Morning,

Well it was becoming a mystery yesterday if it would end up storming or not. It eventually leaned toward the former, producing over an inch of rain on the mountain, which was more than any precip received combined the entire month of July to that point. The forecast for today has improved significantly, with sunny skies overhead and milder temps at the summit. Visitors today are soaking it up and hitting the popular vantage points like Myrtle Point and Cliff Tops. There is a chance for some dicey weather around supper time, which may end up being a nothing burger. For the weekend, the percentages are going to ramp up, meaning greater potential for wet and sloppy hiking conditions. Best to come prepared for it if a journey to Mt. LeConte is in the cards these next several days. And remember, in amongst these steep ridges and tight hollers, it can take one cloudburst to hit just right and unload a substantial amount of rain that ends up swelling creeks quickly. Pay attention to your surroundings and know your place on the map (old fashioned is better, don’t trust the phone apps). And above all if hiking conditions ever turn suboptimal and life threateneing, know when to turn around!

Have a great day.

Good Morning,

Cloudy, muggy, and misty mornings have become the norm for the mountain in recent days. We’ll gladly take the precipitation, which has sprinkled little by little, although these dense fogs seem to be elevating the humidity levels beyond what would even be appropriate for sauna standards. The occasional breeze provides brief but life-saving relief from the heaviness and stickiness of the air. Temps over the coming days are going to be significantly milder than they were the first half of this month, seeing little variance as they roll between mid 50s and lower 60s. That will feel chilly to anyone who gets to the summit, acclimates to the conditions, but forgot to bring a change of dry clothes should rain or sweat get the best of you. This next is going to try and make up for how dry it’s been, with storm chances every afternoon now and through the weekend. Come prepared with gear and clothing that can stand up to the test for keeping you safe and comfortable. In recent days, the trailheads haven’t been filling up as early as they did in June, and a wet forecast is likely to see this trend continue, although plenty of travelers will still be making their way to the mountain.

​Have a great day.

Good Afternoon,

​Believe it or not, there’s actual rain in the forecast today, and it might actually happen for the first time in what feels like forever. It’s continued to be one of the driest months on record, so a little relief from the heavens will do a lot of good around these parts. Monday also saw the lodge reach its highest temp of the year so far, hitting 74° yesterday afternoon. That coincided with the lowlands enduring triple digits for the third consecutive day. As we’ve stated countless times before, these conditions are to be taken seriously especially by those folks not used to doing strenuous outdoor activities. Thankfully a “cool” down is expected for the back half of this week. Sure it won’t be as scorching at times, but the humidity this region is known for has no plans of easing up. There’s still two months of summer remaining, so continue to stay vigilant when it comes to exploring the wilderness. Storm chances are high over the next several days, so let’s get back in the habit of included rain gear in case skies turn choppy in the afternoons.

A heads-up that our online store is undergoing some updates. We have some new product that we are excited to launch very soon, which is sure to be a hit with all those beloved Lodge enthusiasts out there. Once the updated online store goes live, we’ll be sure to announce it here. Stay tuned!

​Have a great day.

Good Morning,

We’re in the thick of summer now, and when it’s this hot and humid, it can be difficult to hike much faster than a snail’s pace. These conditions are no joke, regardless of one’s physical abilities or youthful exuberance. Heat exhaustion and dehydration are no joke just as much here on a mountain as can be in a desert or at sea level. Remember that hiker’s are individually responsible for their own safety and enjoyment when exploring the backcountry, as medical assistance in a remote location is never a guarantee, or not always prompt anyways. So critiquing every bit of your agenda and resources is absolutely critical in this blazing heat.

​What time of day do you plan on hiking compared to the heat of the sun? Do you have enough food and water recommended for a person of your height and weight? Is your breathing affected by potentially poor air quality? Does your skin burn easily in unabated sunlight? Are you hiking with children not as strong or experienced as you spending time in these elements? Do you know your own limits…when it’s appropriate to simply turn around and not put yourself or others in danger? These are a but a sample of questions everyone should be asking before thrusting oneself into the proverbial furnace. Please take these conditions and advice seriously before ever stepping foot onto the trail.

Quick shout out to Nathan for recently spoiling the Lodge crew with a fabulous cobbler made from hand-picked blackberries, accompanied by captivating tales of past world-wide adventures. We are incredibly blessed to have so many selfless and giving folks who offer their unwavering and heartfelt support to our crew, time and time again. From family and friends both near and far, to crew and guests both past and present, the gifts and kind gestures are always greatly appreciated and a continual source of inspiration to our dedicated and passionate team.

Stay cool out there and have a great day.

Good Afternoon,

Did someone forget to close the oven door? That’s how it’s felt outside in places today and is expected to be over the next several days. The thermometer at the lodge nearly cracked 72° this afternoon while a number of the park’s gateway communities apparently reached triple digits for the first time this year. This latest round of hefty heat punches is slated to be the most intense bout yet, and should be taken seriously by all visitors to the Smokies…regardless if man, woman, child, or beast. Sure our measurements may sound pleasant comparatively, but when you consider the effort required to attain such a lofty mountaintop locale, and throw in that infamous southern Appalachian humidity, then there’s really no escaping the oppressive conditions no matter the elevation. About our only hope for some relief will have to come in the form of rain, which might not be until midweek. What was a dry June has persisted into a parched July, the summit having only amassed 0.6” of rainfall thus far. Water is a precious resource up here, and although droughts have been known to be a pest during some autumn seasons (remember last year?), for it to be this dry already is certainly becoming a concern of numerous natural springs across the park. Early starts, frequent breaks, ample hydration, adequate nourishment, sun protection…these things are an absolute must for a safe venture into the backcountry.

​Have a great rest of the day.