Saturday, February 15th, 2020

Good morning from the high country,

Brrr. Its a beautiful morning at 6593'. This mornings low was 8 degrees. The high yesterday only reached 21 degrees. It was 15 degrees at 7 am observation. We received no precipitation. Winds were calm throughout the day which made for a pleasant day to be out on trail. Ice was not an issue, but I never go the high country in winter without my trusted microspikes. Trails were very wet from past rains and sure to be icy  today with the cold temperatures we are experiencing. All roads are open and trails leading to the summit await you. Pack plenty of layers it's a cold one folks. Creeks below have swollen and are roaring through the mountains. 

Yesterday I hiked Rainbow Falls trail with one thing in mind: groceries. With all the hustle and bustle in Gatlinburg, my time was short. Now that highway 441 opened, Alum Cave trail was my route back to my temporary home. Upon arriving at the Bluffs I noticed shards of ice plummeting to the trail below. Keep a close eye on this area of trail! Always use caution while hiking in the backcountry, it is wild and unforgiving. Friends I've come to know through my LeConte experience prepared us salmon with fresh veggies and rice. Thanks, Al, Dick and Ann for your company and food, you all rock! Sunset was one of the best I have ever seen. Tangerine skies and low lying cloud cover made for some epic photos, hope you enjoy them. I will be out on trails again today enjoying the weather. Have a wonderful Saturday everyone! See you at the top!

PNUT