News Release

Big South Fork Reopens All Roads Affected by Recent Storm

NPS

News Release Date: July 26, 2024

Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

Work crews at Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area have cleared all roads and most trails of hazardous trees from the major weather event on May 26. Due to safety concerns, the following trails are still closed to all pedestrian, bike, and horse traffic due to extensive tree damage:

• Middle Creek Nature Loop
• Gobbler's Knob Wagon Trail
• Laurel Fork Creek Hiking Trail

Those three trails will reopen when the area has been deemed safe for visitors.  These areas contain hazardous trees, including broken trees hung up by other vegetation. “I am very thankful of all the work done by both Park and contractor crews to clear debris from areas severely impacted by the Memorial Day weekend storms.  Park staff continue to work on the remaining closed trails.  Our overriding goal is to make sure that visitors and employees stay safe during the storm recovery work,” said Superintendent Niki Stephanie Nicholas.