October 31, 2024

Good Afternoon,

The skies over the mountain opted for a reversal from what was originally forecast, starting out dreary and improving as the day went on instead of the other way around. Estimated wind speeds also managed to double overnight and this morning, gusting upwards of 45mph at varying elevations. The breezy conditions, bare trees, and cloud-capped peaks were quite befitting of the holiday mood. The gray layer eventually lifted once we got into the afternoon hours, affording hikers ample sunshine and grand views of the now colorless slopes and hollers. That’s right, from our vantage point, the 2024 autumn leaf change is just about over. Trails like Alum Cave and The Boulevard are now full of monochrome woody skeletons that will let in abundant natural light for the next 5-6 months. If you’re hoping to catch any remaining vibrant leaves during your Mt. LeConte escapade, then you’re better off utilizing one of the longer trails out of Cherokee Orchard or Roaring Fork on the mountain’s north side. The lower elevations are at peak as we speak and should put on quite a show through this coming weekend at least. What rain showers were first anticipated for late this evening have now been pushed back into Friday morning and afternoon. So expect cloudy and wet conditions to kick off November. After that, the first weekend of the new month should bring back some sunshine and the current trend of warm temps will continue, with 50s during the day and 40s at night. Those of us into hiking as much as we can sure have been spoiled this October. How much longer will this pleasant streak of weather persist?

Have a great day.