Trail Updates

09/25/2026

Shenandoah National Park has closed backcountry camping on the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) from Lewis Mountain Campground (NOBO mile 918.7) to Big Meadows (NOBO mile 927.5) due to recent wildlife interactions and out of an abundance of caution. This includes Bearfence Mountain Hut (NOBO mile 919.6). The A.T. remains open for hiking. For more information, visit the parks website.

You can protect yourself, other hikers, and wildlife on the A.T. by doing the following:

• Educate yourself on bear safety and proper food storage before leaving for the Trail.
• Exercise caution in areas with frequent bear activity.
• Properly store all food, trash, and scented items at night. In the park, this means in the provided bear boxes/on the provided bear poles, in a hard-sided bear canister, or hung from a tree at least 12 feet above the ground and 6 feet away from the trunk and branches.
  • ATC strongly recommends using a bear canister.
• Never sleep with your food or trash.
• Keep a clean camp by picking up crumbs and cleaning up spills.
• Pack out all trash and food waste.
• Never leave unsecured food unattended - even for a moment such as a quick trip to the privy or to check out a view.