For those planning to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, staying informed about the Smoky Mountain Parkway closures and road conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable visit. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the essential information you need to plan your trip and navigate the park’s roads effectively.
Current Smoky Mountain Parkway Closures and Conditions
The Smoky Mountain Parkway, also known as the Newfound Gap Road (US-441), is the primary route through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While this road is open year-round, weather conditions can sometimes lead to temporary closures or restrictions.
Primary Roads
- US-441 (Newfound Gap Road): This is the main road through the park, connecting Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina. It is open year-round, weather permitting.
- Little River Road: This scenic road runs along the Little River and is also open year-round.
- Cades Cove Loop Road: This 11-mile one-way loop road offers a glimpse into the park’s historic past and is open during daylight hours.
Secondary Roads
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has several secondary roads that are subject to seasonal closures, particularly during the winter months due to snow and ice. These roads include:
- Clingmans Dome Road: This road leads to the highest point in the park and is closed from December 1 to March 31.
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: This one-way loop road is closed during the winter months.
- Greenbrier Road: This road is closed during the winter season.
- Heintooga Ridge Road: This road is closed from November 30 to April 1.
Current Closures
To stay up-to-date on the latest Smoky Mountain Parkway closures and road conditions, visitors can:
- Follow @SmokiesRoadsNPS on Twitter: This official National Park Service Twitter account provides real-time updates on road closures and conditions.
- Call the park’s information line at (865) 436-1200: This number provides recorded information on current road and weather conditions.
- Check the park’s website: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park website (www.nps.gov/grsm) maintains a page dedicated to current conditions and alerts.
Reasons for Smoky Mountain Parkway Closures
The Smoky Mountain Parkway and other roads in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be subject to temporary closures due to a variety of factors, including:
Severe Weather
Winter storms, heavy rainfall, floods, and even tornados can all lead to road closures in the park. These weather events can cause hazardous driving conditions, rock slides, and downed trees, making the roads impassable.
Rock Slides
Heavy rainfall and storms can trigger rock slides, which can block the Smoky Mountain Parkway and other roads in the park.
Flooding
High water levels from heavy rains or melting snow can make roads, including the Smoky Mountain Parkway, impassable due to flooding.
Downed Trees
Strong winds can cause trees to fall, blocking roads and requiring cleanup and removal before the roads can be reopened.
Additional Considerations
When planning your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind regarding the Smoky Mountain Parkway and other roads:
Seasonal Closures
Certain roads, such as Clingmans Dome Road and Rich Mountain Road, are closed during the winter months, typically from December 1 to March 31.
Bear Activity
In some cases, trails and areas may be temporarily closed due to bear activity. Always check the park’s website for updates on any such closures.
Backcountry Trail Conditions
When hiking in the park’s backcountry, be prepared for swollen streams, bridge washouts, downed trees, and trail erosion, which can affect your ability to navigate the trails.
By staying informed about the Smoky Mountain Parkway closures and road conditions, you can plan your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park more effectively and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.