News Release

Shenandoah National Park issues new trail closures for Rocky Branch Fire

News Release Date: March 22, 2024  LURAY, VA – Shenandoah National Park has closed Hull School Trail from Skyline Drive to Thornton River Upper Trail and Thornton River Upper Trail from the intersection of Hull School Trail to Skyline Drive due to the Rocky Branch Wildfire.  
 

Closures still in place include Skyline Drive from Thornton Gap (mile 31.5) to Mathews Arm (mile 22.1), Appalachian Trail from Elkwallow to Beahms Gap, Rocky Branch Trail, Neighbor Mountain Trail, Jeremys Run Trail, and Byrds Nest 4 shelter. A parkwide fire ban remains in effect. 

The fire started Wednesday afternoon and is now estimated to be 1,188 acres burning timber litter. Firefighters continue suppression activities and are establishing a fire line. Fire officials estimate 10% containment as of Friday morning. 

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.