We’re getting a break in the wet weather this morning with a mix of sun and clouds across the upper elevations. Hikers should be able to take care of business on trail today with plenty of time to stay dry and comfortable before storm chances resume late this afternoon. Temps will continue to be warm and humid throughout the park, and the lodge will spend much of its time in the 60s today. Winds will be light but could turn gusty at times if certain storm cells meet their mark. Right now the forecast for both Saturday and Sunday are holding firm at being the sloppiest days of weather this entire week. Temps up top are also expected to cool slightly compared to where they’ve been. So not only should hikers plan to bring layers for staying dry, but also for staying warm, especially if the lodge finds itself stuck in clouds and mist the majority of the time. The purples of the Dwarf Rhododendron are beginning to fade along the mountain’s upper reaches, and the Catawbas are all but completely done. Early July is when the whites of the Rosebay Rhododendron gradually fill in behind them throughout the low to mid elevations. Places like the bottom half of Alum Cave Trail or even the drive along Roaring Fork host some of the finer displays the Smokies have to offer.
Have a great day.
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