Virginia hikers may not be able to use portions of The Appalachian Trail until October 2025

The Jefferson National ForrestPhoto byFlickr screenshot

Parts of the Appalachian Trail have been closed

Fall is ideal for many Virginia hikers to walk the Appalachian Trail, but this year things are different. Cardinal News reports Hurricane Helene has temporarily halted activity on the 500 miles between Virginia and Tennessee from the border between the two states to north Front Royal.

Damage is still being accessed, and the US Forrest Service (George Washington and Jefferson National Forests), has closed the Clinch Ranger District and the Mount Rogers National Recreation Area due to significant power outages, severe flooding, fallen trees, and impassable roads.

Recreation areas on the Eastern Divide and North River Ranger Districts are also closed due to flood damage from Hurricane Helene. The closure is in effect from October 1, 2024, until October 1, 2025, unless rescinded so be watching for updates.