Hickory Ridge #71 and Rough Ridge #12 Trails closed (Cohutta Wilderness)

The Hickory Ridge (#71) and Rough Ridge (#12) trails in the Cohutta Wilderness (Conasauga Ranger District) are temporarily closed for public safety. 

Hurricane Helene’s high winds and heavy rainfall have compounded ongoing changes to the Wilderness resulting from the 2016 drought and wildfires. These combined impacts have created dense understory growth and extensive blowdowns, resulting in hazardous trail conditions for hikers.

The trails will remain closed until they can be cleared by trail crews and volunteers.