News Release

Big South Fork Continues to Reopen Areas Affected by Recent Storm

Work crews removing downed trees

NPS

News Release Date: June 27, 2024

Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

As of July 5, 2024 - the Hatfield Ridge Multi-Use Trail and Hatfield Ridge Loop Trail have been cleared of storm debris. However, they can only be accessed from the Kentucky side of Divide Road, not from the Tennessee side.

As of June 27, 2024 - Twin Arches Hiking Trail and the Charit Creek Lodge Connector trail is now open. Access to these trails is only from Fork Ridge Road.

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

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

In addition, Divide Road, north of the Fork Ridge intersection, and Twin Arches Road remain closed. Those areas will reopen when the area has been deemed safe for visitors. These areas contain hazardous trees, including broken trees hung up by other vegetation.

“Both Park and contractor work crews continue to work on clearing debris from the areas that were severely impacted by the Memorial Day weekend storms. I appreciate everyone’s patience with the situation. Our overriding goal is to make sure that visitors and employees stay safe during the storm recovery work,” said Superintendent Niki Stephanie Nicholas.

By entering closed areas individuals are endangering themselves and the work crews. Also, when people enter areas with crews, work must stop–causing delays in the reopening of roads and trails. Do not enter closed areas. People entering closed areas may be ticketed by Law Enforcement Officers.