June 30, 2025

As we step into the week famously known for fireworks, it’s the repetitious boom-clap from the skies that has been stealing the show lately. Judging by the forecast, we have at least two more days of exciting weather possibilities before the outlook improves, and just in time for the great American holiday. Some mid-level clouds are smothering parts of the park this morning, otherwise sunshine abounds over the Smokies’ higher peaks. Much of today should be pleasant before the storm chances rev up late this afternoon. For Tuesday, the likelihood of wet conditions increases as does its presence across the entire day. So we just need to get through this before we can enjoy some rainbows and clear skies, which should hopefully give the ground a chance to dry out a tad after a soggy week plus. Temps up top aren’t going anywhere, continuing their roll from 50s to 60s.

Expect visitor traffic in the park and gateway communities to gradually increase as the week goes on. Summer vacationers and then groups coming in for the holiday weekend will surely pack into the hallowed outdoor spaces, especially with such a promising forecast. Keep that in mind when planning your routes and start times if trekking to Tennessee’s mightiest mountain is on the agenda. Reminder that our reservations office will only be open Monday - Thursday this week, in case you are a guest with an upcoming overnight stay needing to make some last minute requests.