Last Updated on November 24, 2024 3:07 pm
MARS HILL, N.C. (Nov. 22, 2024) – The U.S. Forest Service today welcomed visitors back to portions of the Appalachian Ranger District on the Pisgah National Forest after a vast effort to clear debris and assess damage left by Tropical Storm Helene over the last several weeks.
The Appalachian Ranger District reopened trails and roads in Haywood and Madison counties, including portions of the Appalachian Trail running between I40 Crossing (milepost 241.3) and Bald Mountain Shelter (milepost 327.7). A small handful of roads and trails in those counties will remain closed as crews continue to address downed trees and other hazards.
CLOSED TRAILS:
Madison County
- TR 286- Jerry Miller Trail
- TR 285- Fork Ridge Trail
- TR 293- White Oak Trail
- TR 292- Hickey Fork Trail
- TR 287- Green Ridge Trail
CLOSED ROADS:
Haywood County
- FSR 233- Haynes
- FSR 288- Buzzard Roost
- FSR 289- Old Buzzard Roost
- FSR 3449- Cataloochee
Madison County
- FSR 468- Polecat Holler
- FSR 3518- Murray Branch
Due to widespread damage on the eastern portion of the Appalachian Ranger District, most areas within Avery (Elk River Falls Area), Buncombe (Big Ivy/Shope Creek Area), Mitchell, and Yancey counties remain closed. However, the following roads are now open for public use.
OPEN ROADS:
Mitchell County
- FSR 5583- Ephraim
Yancey County
- FSR 278- Flat Top
- FSR 5506- Devils Creek
- FSR 5508- Spivey Creek
- FSR 5523- Colberts Creek
- FSR 5570- White Oak Flats
“My heart goes out to all of the residents and communities in the continued recovery efforts during the aftermath of Helene, and we hope that reopening areas will provide opportunities to recreate and enjoy public lands in a safe manner,” said District Ranger Jen Barnhart. “We are very excited to open portions of the Appalachian Ranger District. Though some areas are now open, please use caution while on the Forest because there are still widespread roads, trails and trees with damage.”
