Trail Updates

04/02/2026

Update: Due to high wildfire risk, the North Carolina Forest Service has issued a ban on all open burning statewide, effective 6PM Saturday, March 28 until further notice. The burn ban includes no campfires, no open-flame stoves (fuel stoves are permitted), and no fireworks or sparklers.

Avery and Mitchell counties also have their own, more restrictive burn bans in place that apply to the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) from approximately Indian Grave Gap to Doll Flats (NOBO miles 352.9 to 392.6). There is also a five year burn ban on the A.T. from Hughes Gap to Doll Flats.

A.T. hikers should always refrain from having campfires during times of high fire danger, regardless of whether an official burn ban is in place. High fire danger means periods of hot, dry, windy weather. Note that short periods of rain do not necessarily lower fire risk. ATC urges hikers to not have campfires at anytime in areas damaged by Hurricane Helene, due to the heightened fire risk posed by downed trees and storm debris (Davenport Gap to Pearisburg, VA).

Learn more about wildfire risk on the A.T. and safety when hiking through Helene-damaged areas.