Much of the country is experiencing massive snowfall, blizzard conditions, and the resulting pile-up of the white stuff and cold temperatures. But what would it be like to live so high up a mountain that winter could come at any time?   Workers at The Lodge at LeConte – right on the edge of the Smoky Mountains – experience the beauty of winter for a few months more each year.  Luckily the chef at The Lodge is writing all about it and even better … with PICTURES!

When the weather is bad like it is today I keep an eye out for hikers that are coming through for the day or hiking in to stay in the back country shelter.  When the temperatures are extremely cold it can be really hard on the best hikers.  Most hikers are well prepared and in good shape.  But every now and then I come across someone that needs to come in and warm up and dry out for a bit.

I am also available to the National Park Service to assist with any rescues or searches on Mt. LeConte.  I have helped with two searches this winter.

That’s amazing… to have a mountain top as your back yard.  Stay warm, guys. Stay safe.