curious about snow depth in the smokies

[DavidNH]

Given all the snow here in New England as of early February 2011, I wonder how much snow there is in the Smokies at say the 5000-6000 + foot level. Can anyone give me an idea what it's lie now on the ridgelines of the Smokies?


DavidNH

[Roots]

Try this:

http://www.highonleconte.com/daily-posts.html

this is the journal of the caretaker for the Mt LeConte lodge in the Smokies.

[LoneRidgeRunner]

I just now got this from the GSMNP website by clicking "closed roads and facilities under quick links on the home page:


For current backcountry trail and campsite information call (865) 436-1297

or (865) 436-1231. Please note these numbers are for backcountry trail and campsite
information only.

Snow/ice Warning - snow and ice accumulations are present on backcountry trails,
especially at high elevation. Ice crampons/grippers for boots are recommended.

Here is the link to the website:
http://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm

The site is updated 2 or 3 times a week bu the phone numbers will give you the most current info.
A week or 2 ago it said the snow was waist deep at the higher elevations on the trails. Much of the AT is above 5000 feet, which qualifies as higher elevations unless you're in Colorado.

[Marta]

I don't think there's much up there now. I was in the vicinity of Mt. Pisgah yesterday and there was only a little ice in the shadows.

Next weekend I'm heading into the Smokies, so I'll know for sure. ;-)