!!!Attention thru- hikers and anyone else going into GSMNP after Feb 13!!!

[max patch]

I understand that paying for a service that used to be free can be contentious, but at least it is MUCH easier than what people have to do for other trails.

Anybody whoever made a reservation for the GSMNP in the old days via telephone is jumping for joy over this new system. Now Mt LeConte Lodge needs to enter the 20th century. Down right impossible to get thru on the telephone on the first day that reservations become available for the next year.

[sliderule]

Anybody whoever made a reservation for the GSMNP in the old days via telephone is jumping for joy over this new system.

Actually, those of us who obtained permits before the old days jumped for joy when the telephone permit system was implemented. Back then, you had to obtain your permit in person at a ranger station or visitors center. And, to top that off, a hike during the cooler months required that a ranger inspect your gear before issuing the permit.

[HooKooDooKu]

Anybody whoever made a reservation for the GSMNP in the old days via telephone is jumping for joy over this new system. Now Mt LeConte Lodge needs to enter the 20th century. Down right impossible to get thru on the telephone on the first day that reservations become available for the next year.

I'd prefer telephone and free rather than online and $24-$48 (family of 3 for 2 to 4 nights).

As for LeConte, just send them an email ahead of Oct 1 with your request. On Oct 1st, they have (at least) one person answering phones and (at least) one person randomly selecting faxed/emailed requests. If you're not picky about dates, I've never wound up with 'nothing' when I've requested an "any date" reservation via email.