News Release

Big South Fork NRRA Continues to Recover from Recent Storm Damage

Park staff working to clear downed trees

NPS

News Release Date: May 28, 2024

Contact: Christopher Derman, 423-569-9778

Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area continues to recover from the Sunday, May 26 weather event that produced dangerously high winds, and dropped almost two inches of rain, adding to the more than 10 inches of rain the area has received for the month.

National Park Service staff worked tirelessly, yet safely, to clear roads of numerous large-diameter hazardous hardwood trees, enabling motorists, backcountry hikers, and visitors staying at Charit Creek Lodge to leave the following day.

Crews continue with the completion of the clean-up of Divide Road, Twin Arches, and Fork Ridge Road. Due to safety concerns, the following areas and trails remain closed to all pedestrian and vehicle traffic due to extensive tree damage: Divide Road, Fork Ridge Road, Twin Arches Road including access to the hiking trails and other infrastructure in the area. Those areas will reopen when the area has been deemed safe for visitors.

The visiting public is asked to not enter closed areas. These areas may still contain hazardous trees. 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.