More Access Returned for Most Areas of the Cherokee National Forest

Contact Information Cherokee National Forest Public Information Officer

Phone: (423) 819-0233 Email: Christopher.joyner@usda.gov

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. — The U.S. Forest Service restores access, effective today, Nov. 6., to more areas closed in the Cherokee National Forest in the wake of Hurricane Helene flooding. The public can now access all points of the Cherokee National Forest except for areas identified in the new modified Nov. 6 closure order.

“I'm happy to reopen Bumpass Cove, Rich Mtn Road and Dark Hollow, Dick’s Creek areas,” said Leslie Morgan, Unaka Ranger District, ranger, Cherokee National Forest. “In cooperation with the respective counties, these areas were closed to prevent additional burden on the county emergency responders. Thanks to the incredible work of responders, we can restore more access to the Cherokee National Forest."

This announcement will reopen areas known as Bumpus Cove/Rich Mountain in Washington County and Dark Hollow/Dick's Creek in Unicoi County along with areas in the Watauga Ranger District all closed at the recommendation of the respective county officials.

The Jackson Farm area will remain closed at the request of responders engaged in recovery missions. US Forest Service campgrounds on the Unaka and Watauga Ranger Districts will also remain closed for the remainder of the season.

Visitors to the Cherokee National Forest will encounter downed trees and are encouraged to monitor speed on roads as crews continue work on hazard trees and destroyed roads. Recovery will remain ongoing for years so please be patient as we all navigate this historic event.

Maps of the current, 388 acre, life and safety closure for Jackson Farm can be found here: https://www.fs.usda.gov/main/cherokee/maps-pubs

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