Snow in the Smokies

[MtnRider1981]

I am planning a 2 day trek around Clingman's Dome the 17th & 18th. Does anyone know the condition of the trails around that area? Snow, ice, etc?

[curtisvowen]

2ft.+ snow drifts.
No road access to Newfound/Clingman's.
Blowdowns.....not as bad as the reports south of the Park.

[ed bell]

If you are planning on using 441 you are probably going to be out of luck, like Curtis said, the road is closed. The only way up to the high ridge is from the park entrances and that's a good haul.

Here is a great blog from a Lodge caretaker on Mt. LeConte (6500'+ peak near Clingmans Dome):
http://www.lifeonleconte.com/life-on-leconte-blog.html

He keeps it updated and will mention snow depths and temperatures. Sounds like 30 inches as of today with more on the way. Very cold as well.

[Ox97GaMe]

It is not just 441 that may be closed. The road out to Clingman's Dome is always closed in the winter time from Dec 1 - Mar 1. This year, they are repaving that road and it is not planned to be opened until mid-late May. Easiest hiking access point is from the AT at Newfound Gap and will add 6.5 miles to your hike each way, or you can walk the 7 miles along the road. Any of the other trails to get to Clingmans will include a significant climb from the valley, usually in the neighborhood of 3000-4000 vertical feet over about a 5 mile distance.

441 does close occassionally if there is snow/ice in the area. It is usually open within a day or two when this occurs. It is always a good idea to contact the rangers station to get road and weather conditions before your start your hike. You will need to do this to get backcountry reservations anyway.

[Reid]

That guys got a good blog.

[MtnRider1981]

Ok, does anyone know the condition around Cades Cove?

[MintakaCat]

That guys got a good blog.

I was thinking the same thing. Plus he takes great photos.

[ed bell]

Ok, does anyone know the condition around Cades Cove?Doesn't look much better:

http://www.yoursmokies.com/smokymountainsnationalparkroadconditions.html

They will try to keep 441 open, but it can be day to day. Evidently they tried and failed to get it open on Saturday. More snow on the way.

[ed bell]

Our group is probably going to change plans for next weekend because of the Smokeys road conditions. We were going to try the Alum Cave Trail up to LeConte, but the 441 situation is going to be the deciding factor. The Bullhead and Rainbow Falls Trailheads are closed due to road work. That leaves no realistic options for us.

[Smoky in TN]

441 was closed Sunday. With more snow coming, I doubt the road will be open on Feb. 17-18.