News Release

Shenandoah National Park issues closures for Rocky Branch Fire

Date: March 21, 2024
Contact: Carly Adams, 540-333-0742

LURAY, VA – Shenandoah National Park has closed Skyline Drive from Thornton Gap (mile 31.5) to Mathews Arm (mile 22.1) due to the Rocky Branch Wildfire. Trail closures include the Appalachian Trail from Elkwallow to Beahms Gap, Rocky Branch, Neighbor Mountain, Jeremys Run, and Byrds Nest 4. A parkwide fire ban remains in effect.

The fire started Wednesday afternoon and is estimated to be 450 acres burning timber litter. Firefighters are continuing suppression activities and establishing a fire line. Fire officials estimate 10% containment as of Wednesday night.

The National Park Service firefighters are working in partnership with Luray Fire Department and Virginia Department of Forestry.

The cause of the fire is unknown. No structures are immediately threatened by the fire.