Alerts & Conditions

Recovery from Hurricane Helene

Park staff and volunteers are assessing conditions and addressing damage caused in late September by Hurricane Helene. Hundreds of trees fell during the storm. Initial efforts focused on park roads and front country camping facilities. Crews are now clearing trails, but many trails remain blocked by multiple fallen trees. Upright and leaning trees at high risk of falling, washouts, damage to water crossings, and other unpredictable hazards may also be present. Park staff and resources are stretched thin and emergency response may be delayed.

Current park conditions as of 10/9/2024:

Facilities, Roads, and Overlooks

• The Visitor Center is OPEN.
• Pinnacle Overlook is OPEN.
• Pinnacle Road is OPEN.
• State Road 988/Sugar Run Road is OPEN.

Campgrounds, Campsites, Picnic Shelters, and Picnic Areas

• Wilderness Road Campground is OPEN.
• All Backcountry Campsites are CLOSED.
• Bartlett Park is OPEN.
• Lewis Hollow Road and Picnic Area is OPEN.
• Civic Park is OPEN.

Hiking, Biking, and Horseback Riding Trails

• Fort McCook Trail is OPEN.
• Fitness Trail is OPEN.
• Harlan Road Trail is OPEN.
• Object Lesson Road Trail is OPEN.
• Wilderness Road Trail is OPEN.
• Tri-State Trail is OPEN.
• Daniel Boone Trail is OPEN.
• Gap Cave Trail is OPEN.
• Tennessee Road Trail is OPEN.
• Hiking on other trails is NOT recommended.
• All Bike Trails are CLOSED.
• All Horse Trails are CLOSED.

Guided Tours and Caves

• Hensley Settlement Tours have resumed and will continue through October 31.
• Gap Cave Tours have ended and Gap Cave is closed for the winter.
• Skylight Cave is closed for the winter.

Your safety is our utmost priority. We urge you to stay updated with the latest information, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to safely restore access to park trails and areas over the coming weeks.