Trail Updates

Updated 07/29/2026

The storm debris removal project around Iron Mountain Gap is complete, and the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) in the area is officially reopened (NOBO miles 360.6 to 366.1)! The section has been closed since Hurricane Helene caused severe damage to the area in September 2024, and a detour was in place.

Hikers can now access the A.T. from Iron Mountain Gap (NOBO mile 364.7) and hike through section. The Iron Mountain Gap Detour will be decommissioned over the next few weeks.

IMPORTANT INFO FOR HIKERS:

• Parts of the section south of Iron Mountain Gap are heavily overgrown. Crews will be clearing back the brush over the next week or so (NOBO mile 360.6 to 364.8).
• Cherry Gap Shelter was destroyed in the storm, but hikers can tent at the former shelter site (361.7).
• Work is still needed to repair the footpath in the section north of Iron Mountain Gap (NOBO miles 364.8 to 366.1). In the meantime, hikers should follow the dirt road that closely parallels the A.T. from Iron Mountain Gap to Weedy Gap. Signs will be posted directing hikers along the road.

Please look out for crews working and give them plenty of room. Make sure crew members see you and stop/pause work to let you pass before approaching.

Thank you to volunteers with the Tennessee Eastman Hiking & Canoeing Club for their hard work to rehabilitate the Trail in this area. ATC staff, the USDA Forest Service, and the Southern Appalachian Wilderness Stewards all helped repair this section of the A.T.

Storm damage is still being repaired in this area and elsewhere on the A.T., and it will take many more years for the landscape to heal. Learn about what to expect in storm-damaged areas, how to stay safe, and other detours and closures still in place by visiting our Hiking & Helene page.