March 26, 2024

UPDATE:
Cherokee Orchard has been recently assessed and is now closed at the park boundary due to downed trees. Guests with reservations for tonight affected by the road closures should contact our reservations office to discuss options if they have not already done so.

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Good Morning,

Over the past twelve hours, the howling winds have been packing some serious punch. We’re fortunate that the lodge sits below the ridge on a north-facing slope, because the roar of what’s been blowing over the crest from the south has been legit. The weather station at nearby Cove Mountain has recorded max wind gusts of 85mph so far, and Mt. LeConte has easily experienced the same. These winds are the kind that make you think your cabin is about to take flight, or knock you off your feet if not unconditionally focused on your balance while walking. No wonder they chain buildings to the ground atop Mt. Washington in NH!

US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) will likely be closed for the duration of the High Wind Warning, as well as the rain expected to last all day. Precip could be heavy at times unless the mountains happen to break up the passing system. Cherokee Orchard Road is still open, but it’s possible that could change at a moment’s notice, especially if that road hasn’t been recently assessed. Anyone accessing the mountain from that side should know what they’re facing trail-wise. Trillium Gap Trail is 8.9 miles from that point, and although the path was recently clear of trees, that makes for a lengthy ascent in less than ideal elements. Bull Head is littered with downed trees of varying size and chewed up sections of trail. That leaves Rainbow Falls, the shortest of the three at 6.7 miles and with at least one major downed tree to navigate near the top. Please note this intel was before the current winds arrived.

The rain is expected to roll in around breakfast time. That means anyone getting an early start can do themselves a favor by putting as many miles underfoot as possible before trails turn to muck or creeks swell. There’s also the benefit that traversing the north side of the mountain shields one from the nagging winds. Reminder that guests with reservations have peace of mind knowing a cozy cabin providing shelter awaits them. Day hikers don’t have that luxury and would be wise to wait this one out. Wednesday looks promising for up and down rambles.

Be safe and have a great day.