The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a beloved destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a vast network of trails that showcase the region’s stunning natural beauty. However, as with any natural environment, trail closures and advisories are a common occurrence, often due to weather, wildlife, or maintenance concerns. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the current trail closures, provide tips for checking trail conditions, and discuss the impact of bear activity on backcountry access.
Current Trail Closures
As of now, several trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are temporarily closed for various reasons. Here’s a breakdown of the specific trail closures:
| Trail Name | Closure Status |
|---|---|
| Gatlinburg Trail | Temporarily closed between Gatlinburg and the Sugarlands Visitor Center |
| Twin Creeks Trail | Temporarily closed between Gatlinburg and the Sugarlands Visitor Center |
| Bullhead Trail | Open but with many downed trees, making the trail very difficult to navigate |
| Rabbit Creek Trail | The bridge where the trail crosses Abrams Creek is closed |
It’s important to note that trail closures and conditions can change frequently, so it’s crucial to check the park’s website or call the park’s information line for the latest updates before planning your visit.
Checking Trail Closures and Advisories
Staying informed about trail closures and advisories is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience in the Great Smoky Mountains. Here are a few ways to stay up-to-date:
- Phone: Call the Great Smoky Mountains National Park information line at (865) 436-1200 and dial extension 631 for road information or extension 630 for a weather forecast.
- Twitter: Follow the official Twitter account of the National Park Service, @SmokiesRoadsNPS, for the latest updates on road and weather conditions.
- Park Website: Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website at nps.gov/grsm and check the “Conditions” section for current trail closures and advisories.
By staying informed, you can plan your hikes and outdoor activities accordingly, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the Smokies.
Bear Activity and Closures
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to a thriving black bear population, and their presence can sometimes lead to trail closures or warnings. Here’s what you need to know:
- Bear Closures: Certain areas of the park may be closed due to increased bear activity. Check the park’s website for specific closures.
- Bear Warnings: In areas where bears are active, the park may post warnings to alert visitors. Be sure to read and follow any posted instructions.
- Safety Information: Review the park’s “What Do I Do If I See a Bear?” guide to learn about proper safety precautions when encountering bears in the Smokies.
Respecting the bears’ natural habitat and following the park’s guidelines is crucial for the safety of both visitors and the wildlife.
Backcountry Campsites and Shelters
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a vast network of backcountry campsites and shelters, but these facilities may also be affected by trail closures and bear activity. Here’s what you need to know:
- Information: For current backcountry trail and campsite information, call the park’s backcountry information line at (865) 436-1297.
- Closures: Trails, backcountry campsites, and shelters frequented by black bears may have warnings posted or be closed. Check the park’s website for the latest updates.
Staying informed about the status of backcountry facilities is crucial for planning a safe and successful camping trip in the Smokies.
Cave and Mine Shaft Closure
In addition to trail and backcountry closures, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has also implemented a complete prohibition on entry into all caves and mine shafts. This measure is in place due to concerns about the spread of white nose syndrome, a devastating disease that affects bat populations.
Additional Resources
For the most up-to-date information on trail closures, road conditions, and other important alerts in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, be sure to check the following resources:
- Smokies Adventure: Provides alerts, closures, and important notices for the park.
- Cabin Rentals in Gatlinburg: Offers a guide to current Smoky Mountain road conditions and closures.
By staying informed and planning ahead, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, even in the face of trail closures and other challenges.
References
- https://www.smokiesadventure.com/alerts.htm
- https://www.cabinsusagatlinburg.com/smoky-mountain-road-conditions.php
- https://www.travelandleisure.com/great-smoky-mountains-national-park-trail-closure-8631460
- https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/conditions.htm
- https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/temproadclose.htm