May 24, 2026

​It’s a rather uneventful morning sitting in the clouds, but we know not to get complacent as scattered rain showers are still present across the region.  As we get into the afternoon, storms are expected to increase in size and number, so enjoy this brief calm while we have if getting outside and exploring today.  Temps at the Lodge will continue to hang around in the 50s.  Winds over the peaks to remain variable as storms move in and out.  Memorial Day and beyond are all calling for more of the same.  If you’re hitting the trail without any rain gear given all that is known, consider that an open invitation to receiving strange looks.

It’s happened once before a handful of years ago, but our section of the national park welcomed some visitors not particularly common around these parts.  A pair of Elk, likely having made the long trot over from the farm fields of Oconaluftee, were seen near the Alum Cave trailhead yesterday.  How far they decided to explore the woods of Tennessee, or their current whereabouts, is unknown.  That sure had to be a rare treat for anyone transiting US 441.  One of our shuttle drivers, Airika, had the good fortune of witnessing the unusual event and managed to capture some photos (zooming in from a safe distance, of course!).  As we get into the summer season, wildlife interactions with creatures both big and small become more likely.  To (re)familiarize oneself with the accepted practices of wildlife viewing in the national park, please take the time to visit the Park’s website at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/wildlifeviewing.htm