Summer is coming on fast here in oyr beautiful Smoky Mountains.  The deep woods are green and the Flame Azalias are on fire with color.  It seems like we have skipped over Spring and slipped right into Summer.  It feels like it was just Winter time up on the AT.  There's just been enough rain to keep the wood green.  Some of the springs are running slow.  We need some long soaking rains to raise the water table.  We did get some strong thunderstorms last week in the higher elevations.  But the Mountains are thirsty and they have drunk up every drop of rain that fell.

    Most of the North Bound Thruhikers have passed through the Smokies.  Now we are mostly meeting Section Hikers and In The Park Backpackers.  Despite the heat and humidity it has been a beautiful Spring.  The Flame Azalias are busting and the Mornings are cool and misty.  It's been a Blessing to watch everything grow up and bloom in our mountains this Spring.  I hope to see you out on the trail taking in the beauty.