Trail Updates

GA-VA – Prescribed Burn Season, 2/26/25

02/26/2025

National Forests in Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia have announced that they have or will soon begin prescribed burns this spring, including along the Appalachian Trail (A.T.). A burn is already planned for Max Patch.

Prescribed burns reduce the risk of wildfires, restore wildlife habitat, and improve forest health. Prescribed burns are weather dependent and advanced notice is not always possible. If you come across a prescribed burn on the A.T.:

• You’ll know you’ve come across a prescribed burn because there will be fire crews out and often signs along the Trail at either end of the burn. Volunteers or firefighters may be posted on the Trail at either end of the burn.
• Be prepared to wait for the Trail to reopen or find another route. For prescribed burns that temporarily close the Trail, closures usually only last a few hours.
• Always follow all directions from posted signs and fire crews.
• Be aware that smoke may linger for a day or more after a prescribed burn, and you may see and smell smoke from prescribed burns that are not along the Trail.

If you see or smell smoke along the A.T. and are not sure whether or not it is a prescribed burn, or suspect a wildfire, please call 911. Local dispatchers will be able to confirm if you’ve come across a prescribed burn.

For more information about the benefits of prescribed burns, please visit the U.S. Forest Service website.

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