114 Miles of the Appalachian Trail Reopen Following Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts

The U.S. Forest Service has officially reopened a majority of trails and roads within the Pisgah National Forest’s Appalachian Ranger District, marking a significant milestone in the recovery efforts following the damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene.

In an announcement earlier this month, the Forest Service confirmed that all trails in Madison and Haywood counties, located in the district, are now open. This includes key segments of the Appalachian Trail, extending over 100 miles through the region. Additionally, trails in the neighboring counties of Buncombe, Yancey, Mitchell, and Avery are also cleared for use.

The town faced significant damage to their infrastructure from Hurricane Helene. Photo: Illuminated Crow

Collaboration in the Recovery Effort

The trail recovery effort has been a collaborative project involving numerous organizations. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Carolina Mountain Club, Tennessee Eastman Hiking and Canoeing Club, North Carolina High Peaks, and EcoForesters all played critical roles in clearing debris and repairing damaged areas. Over the past several months, the Forest Service and these partners have collectively reopened 137 miles of trails, representing nearly 42% of the trails in the district, including more than 114 miles of the Appalachian Trail within Pisgah National Forest.

The storm’s aftermath required extensive work to remove downed trees and other debris, with additional repairs to trail surfaces where trees had uprooted. This work has improved access to popular hiking routes while ensuring public safety in the aftermath of the storm.

Restoring Access to Roads

In addition to the trails, nearly 240 miles of roads across the district have been cleared, which represents 76% of the district’s total roadways. This is expected to enhance access for both hikers and local residents, facilitating easier movement through the area.

Jennifer Barnhart, the Appalachian District Ranger, highlighted the importance of this work, noting the efforts of volunteers and partner organizations. “We recognize the economic, historic and social significance of the trails on the Appalachian Ranger District. Being able to welcome visitors back to their public lands is an important step toward long-term recovery in Western North Carolina,” Barnhart said. “There’s still a lot of work ahead of us, but our volunteers have really shown how dedicated they are to seeing the Pisgah National Forest recover from Helene.”

Economic Boost for Local Communities

The timing of these reopenings coincides with the beginning of the spring hiking season, providing a potential boost for local communities. Towns like Hot Springs, which is located along the Appalachian Trail, are expected to benefit economically from the influx of hikers. As one of the few towns through which the Appalachian Trail runs, Hot Springs has long been a significant stop for northbound thru-hikers who attempt the full 2,200-mile journey.

Near Hot Springs, NC.

Although Hot Springs’ annual Appalachian Trailfest has been canceled this year, the town’s connection to the trail remains central to its identity. Elmer Hall, a local resident, long-time contributor to the festival, and owner of the popular hiker establishment the Sunnybank Inn, emphasized the historical and cultural significance of the Appalachian Trail to the community. “It’s the first town the northbound hikers come to — the first trail town,” Hall remarked.

Looking Ahead

The US Forest Service and its partners continue to prioritize recovery efforts in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene. While much of the heavy lifting has been done, ongoing work will be necessary to ensure that all areas are fully restored. As more than 3 million people visit the Appalachian Trail annually, and thousands more attempt to hike its entire length, the reopening of these trails marks an important step in the long-term recovery of Western North Carolina’s natural landscape.

Featured image: Illuminated Crow