It turned out to be a beautiful final weekend of the season on the mountain. Deep blue skies and bright sunshine did their part to inspire outdoor exploration and invigorate the soul. It was also a fabulous day for the crew to enjoy their annual Mountain Thanksgiving feast and fellowship, always a great chance to reflect on a long season over some delicious food. Although there is still plenty of white covering the ground, we’ve been above freezing the past 24 hours which has contributed to some snowmelt and the “slushifying” of trails and walking paths. Mostly sunny skies are expected once again today with temps getting even warmer, ascending into the lower 50s. That should intensify the thawing here across the summit ahead of the rainfall forecast for this evening. That means trails will go from fairly wet to really wet now and through tomorrow. Winds are also going to ramp up again, gusting as much as 25mph tonight which will amplify any chilliness.
The NPS reopened US 441 (Newfound Gap Rd) yesterday afternoon, so visitors to Mt. LeConte once again have access to all approach trails. Continue to watch for slick surfaces on the roadway and have those traction devices in tow for the hike. Reminder that we close for the winter months in just a couple days. Tuesday afternoon will be the last opportunity for day hikers to partake of any services at the lodge until next spring. So if including the purchase of snacks or the greatest selling “I Hiked It” shirt of all-time-anywhere-in-the-history-of-ever is on your wish list, best to make the trek up today or well before 4:30 PM Tuesday. The gift shop will NOT be open on Wednesday morning due to the serving of breakfast to our last guests of the season and having to complete our necessary shutdown procedures in a timely manner and in a newly consolidated space.
Have a great day.
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