March 15, 2008

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Another hike of the Alum Cave Trail is set for Monday March 17, 2008, Saint Patrick's Day. The occasion is to watch the airlift of supplies to the lodge. Many of the old timers return on this occasion to help. I like to go back and visit with them. Several friends from around the country usually join the hike after I announce the hike.  Be aware that this is subject to change by the weather. You can check the weather on my Links page.

We will probably go to Hardee's in Cherokee, NC for breakfast the morning of the hike and we plan to be at the trailhead between 7:20 and 7:30 a.m daylight Saving Time. I don't know when daylight arrives at the trailhead but I intend to start hiking as soon as it is light enough to do so safely.

Anyone wishing to make the trip show up at the trailhead by 7:30 a.m. daylight saving time. I will try to keep our plans updated on this site if there are changes.

The weather is looking iffy on clouds and temperature. I am taking my crampons along in case the water falling from Alum Cave Bluff has frozen on the trail. I plan to try again on Tuesday the 18th if Monday is a no go due to ice or non flying of supplies.

My next planned hike will be Friday May 9, 2008. I will probably start the hike earlier than the above schedule as the days are longer.

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Current information on the status of Newfound Road is available by calling toll-free 1-888-355-1849 or in the Gatlinburg calling area 436-1200. 

http://www.knoxnews.com/kns/inside_the_park/

Road and weather is available at:

http://www.nps.gov/grsm/gsmsite/roadinfo.html

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